The End of an Extraordinary International Era
One of football’s most remarkable international careers is drawing to a close as Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo announces his retirement from the national team after 23 years of representing his country.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through an emotional farewell video shared on social media, bringing an end to a journey that began in August 2003.
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In his message to the Portuguese people, Ronaldo revealed that he would hand back the iconic number 7 shirt after the November international break, describing the decision as an emotional one shaped by more than two decades of memories, sacrifices and achievements.
“Today the time has come to pass it on to the future,” Ronaldo said, reflecting on the privilege and responsibility of wearing Portugal’s famous shirt for 23 years.
He leaves the international stage as the most prolific men’s international goal scorer in football history, having registered 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, both records in men’s international football.
His international career was defined by historic milestones, individual brilliance and an enduring commitment to his country. Among his most memorable achievements was captaining Portugal to its maiden UEFA European Championship title in 2016, followed by victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Ronaldo also became the first men’s footballer to score at six FIFA World Cup tournaments, further extending a legacy that has placed him among the most influential players the game has ever witnessed.
In his farewell message, the Portuguese captain expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, family and supporters who accompanied him throughout his extraordinary journey. He also reflected on the emotional connection between his goals and the millions of Portuguese fans who celebrated his achievements.
His decision comes after a challenging period involving tensions with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus and a disciplinary suspension. Nevertheless, his departure marks the conclusion of an international career that helped transform Portugal into a major force in world football.
However, international retirement does not signal the end of Ronaldo’s professional football journey. He remains contracted to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, where he continues to pursue the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.
The Portuguese Football Federation is also expected to organise a special tribute to honour his extraordinary contribution to the national team.
After 23 years, 234 appearances and 146 goals, the curtain is finally coming down on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal chapter.
The goals may be surpassed, the records may eventually be broken, but the legacy of Portugal’s number 7 will remain a defining chapter in football history.
Portugal will always be in him.
Sources
[Cristiano Ronaldo – Official X Announcement https://x.com/Cristiano
[Reuters – Cristiano Ronaldo Announces International Retirement](https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-retirement-portuguese-national-team-2026-11-05/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
[Al Jazeera – Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from International Football](https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/11/5/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-retirement-from-international-football?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
[NBC Sports – Ronaldo Announces International Retirement from Portugal](https://www.nbcsports.com/soccer/news/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-international-retirement-from-portugal?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
[SuperSport – Cristiano Ronaldo Announces International Retirement](https://supersport.com/football/news/86f62103-ddc3-445a-961a-6f7f86dddd1b/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-international-retirement?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
[AFP – Cristiano Ronaldo Announces International Retirement](https://www.jacarandafm.com/news/sport/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-international-retirement/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
