Ronaldo Retires From Portugal
The former Manchester United star ended his 23-year international career with a video tribute to fans and the federation.
By Priya Marino ·
Cristiano Ronaldo has ended his international career.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward announced his departure from the national team in a video message released on November 5. He stated that the time had come to return the number seven shirt to the Portuguese football establishment.
Ronaldo served as the face of the Portuguese national squad from his debut in 2003 until now. Over that span, he played in 234 matches. He scored 146 goals for his country, a record total. He also holds the record for the most international victories with 141 wins.
His tenure included major tournament successes. He led Portugal to a 1-0 victory over host nation France in the 2016 European Championship final. He later won the UEFA Nations League in both 2019 and 2025. He participated in six European Championships, a record, and six World Cups.
In his farewell address, Ronaldo reflected on the emotional weight of the role. He said he sees the people living abroad who felt closer to home during matches. He described football as being about people rather than just a game. He admitted to making mistakes and suffering defeats that still hurt to remember, but he said he never stopped feeling proud to represent the country.
The Portuguese Football Federation responded with a public statement. They called Ronaldo the country's eternal captain. The federation expressed deep gratitude for his extraordinary career. They stated that he inspired generations of young players and raised the name of Portugal.
The federation confirmed that plans are underway to organize a tribute event. They said they actively want fans and the country to celebrate the player who gave so much. The organization promised to collaborate on an event that matches the scale of his career.
Ronaldo concluded his message by thanking fans for allowing him to live a dream that started in Madeira. He said the number seven shirt would remain, and the pride of wearing it would be his forever. He bid farewell with the words, until we meet again.
