Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football after 23 years with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al Nassr and the Portugal national team, has announced his retirement from international football after a 23-year career with his country, which began in August 2003.

Ronaldo delivered an emotional message to Portugal fans, stating that the time had come to hand over the No. 7 shirt to future generations, and noting that the decision was not easy, with both his heart and mind involved in making it.

In his message, Ronaldo said: “To the people of Portugal… Today is the day I return the No. 7 shirt to our national team, a shirt I never felt belonged to me alone. For 23 years, I had the honor and responsibility of wearing it and defending it.” He added: “Today, it is time to pass it on to the future. It is not an easy decision, as some choices are not made with the mind alone, but also with the heart.”

Ronaldo reflected on his journey with the national team, saying that the memories are not limited to matches, goals, and trophies, but also include people and emotions, especially migrants and millions of Portuguese around the world. He emphasized that football is more than just a game, as it is about people and national passion, stressing his constant effort to push his limits and give everything for the national shirt.

Ronaldo explained that records and achievements are not everything, and that the impact on fans’ hearts is what matters most. He said: “Goals pass, trophies end up in museums, and records are broken, but there is one thing time can never erase: the place we hold in people’s hearts.” He expressed his gratitude if he had brought joy to fans or given them moments of pride in their country.

Ronaldo stressed that Portugal always needs young people who dream, players who never give up, and new generations who believe in achieving more, saying that a country that produces champions never stops believing in itself. He offered special thanks to his teammates, emphasizing that leadership did not mean he made the journey alone, but that everyone was part of his story.

Ronaldo’s thanks extended to all coaches, officials, medical and technical staff, and those working behind the scenes, as well as his family who supported him throughout his international career. He recalled the moment of hearing the national anthem before matches as one of the most moving experiences with the team, where everyone united behind a single goal, setting differences aside.

Ronaldo concluded his message by affirming that he leaves the national team with his head held high, having given everything for Portugal, and that he will continue to support the team and share in the fans’ joy and sorrow. He said: “Today my journey on the pitch with the national team ends. I leave with my head held high, proud of the path I have taken, and knowing I gave everything for Portugal… but I will never stop being one of you.”

Ronaldo played 234 matches for Portugal, scoring 146 goals, maintaining world records for both international appearances and goals. He took part in six World Cups and led Portugal to win the UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

Ronaldo left the Portugal camp several weeks ago following a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus, later apologizing to fans and teammates. He accused the coach of breaking promises after being left on the bench during the 2-1 win over Norway, a controversy that preceded the match against Denmark, which Portugal won 4-2.

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