Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Portugal Retirement After 23 Years, 146 Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with Portugal after a record-breaking 146 goals in 234 appearances.

The 41-year-old forward confirmed the decision in a statement shared on social media on Thursday, November 5, thanking his teammates, coaches, family and supporters for their backing throughout his international journey.

Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in August 2003 and went on to become the country’s most-capped player and all-time leading goalscorer.

During his international career, he represented Portugal at 12 major tournaments, including six FIFA World Cups and six European Championships.

His achievements included helping Portugal win the 2016 European Championship, the country’s first major international trophy. He also captained the team to two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

In his retirement message, Ronaldo said he was leaving the national team with pride, having given everything for his country.

“Today I finish my walk on the pitch with the national team. I leave with my head held high, with pride in the path I took, and with the awareness that I gave everything I had for Portugal,” he wrote.

Reflecting on his achievements, the Al-Nassr forward said goals, trophies and records would eventually fade, but the memories created with supporters would endure.

“The goals pass, the cups are in museums, the records end up being beaten. But there is something that time can never erase, the place we occupy in people’s hearts,” he added.

Ronaldo also thanked the Portuguese people for allowing him to represent the country for more than two decades, describing the opportunity as the greatest achievement of his career.

“Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for having believed in me. Portugal will always be in me. Forever,” he said.

The announcement follows a period of tension between Ronaldo and Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus. The disagreement reportedly intensified after the forward was left on the bench during a Nations League fixture against Norway and subsequently left the national team camp ahead of another match.

Ronaldo later accused the coach of breaking an agreement over his playing time, although Jesus denied that such an arrangement had been made. The forward eventually apologised for leaving the camp and received a 30-day suspension and a £215 fine from the Portuguese Football Federation, according to the supplied report.

The Portuguese Football Federation paid tribute to Ronaldo, describing him as an inspiring leader and a symbol of the national team’s spirit. It also promised to organise an appropriate tribute to honour his contribution.

In its statement, the federation praised his 234 appearances and 146 goals, while acknowledging his role in some of the most memorable moments in Portuguese football.

Ronaldo’s retirement closes one of the longest and most decorated international careers in modern football, although he is expected to continue his club career with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.