Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from International Football

AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell

Cristiano Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that he will retire from international football after Portugal's November fixtures, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the national team.

The 41-year-old forward confirmed the decision on Thursday, saying he would eventually bring down the curtain on his international career and hand back Portugal's iconic number seven shirt.

Ronaldo, who made his international debut in 2003, is Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He also holds the world record for the most international appearances by a male footballer.

During his international career, Ronaldo helped Portugal win the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League, establishing himself as one of the most influential players in the country's football history.

His announcement marks the end of an extraordinary international career spanning more than two decades, during which he represented Portugal at multiple European Championships and World Cups.

Despite his decision to retire from international football, Ronaldo has not announced an end to his professional club career.

His departure will mark a significant transition for Portugal, with the national team preparing for life without one of the most recognisable figures in its history.


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