Cristiano Ronaldo Announces International Retirement from Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro announced on Thursday that he will retire from the Portugal national football team, concluding a record-breaking international career that spanned more than two decades. The 41-year-old forward stated in a social media video message that he will officially step down from international duty following the November 2026 fixtures.

Reflecting on his decision, Ronaldo acknowledged the deep emotional connection he holds with the national team, explaining that it was time to transition his iconic No. 7 jersey to the next generation of players. His retirement announcement comes shortly after a period of tension with head coach Jorge Jesus following a September 2026 match against Norway, which resulted in a disciplinary sanction from the Portuguese Football Federation.

During his illustrious 23-year career with the Selecao das Quinas, Ronaldo established himself as the all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football. He amassed 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for his country, leading Portugal to its first major continental trophy by winning the 2006 UEFA European Championship, alongside subsequent victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

Ronaldo's international journey began on August 20, 2003, when coach Luiz Felipe Scolari substituted him on for Luis Figo in a match against Kazakhstan. Over the years, he set numerous milestones, including becoming the only player to score in six different FIFA World Cups, starting with his debut tournament in Germany in 2006 through to the 2026 tournament in North America.

Born on February 5, 1985, in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, Ronaldo grew up in modest circumstances alongside his three siblings. Raised primarily by his mother, Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro, after his father passed away at age 52, Ronaldo often credits his family's sacrifices for allowing him to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer. His mother previously recalled that he might have worked in construction if not for his breakthrough in sports.

While his international career with Portugal is drawing to a close, Ronaldo confirmed that he will continue playing at the club level with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The Portuguese Football Federation issued a statement thanking their long-serving captain for his dedication, leadership, and remarkable impact on the nation's football history.

Ronaldo is scheduled to make his final appearances for the national team during upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales in mid-November 2026, marking the definitive end of an era for international football.