After more than two decades representing his homeland, legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that his time with the Portugal national team is coming to an end.
The 41-year-old released an emotional five-minute video on social media on Thursday, sharing the news that the upcoming November international window will mark his final chapter in a Portugal shirt, thereby vacating the famous No. 7 jersey he carried for over twenty years.
In his heartfelt address to fans, Ronaldo spoke about the profound honor of wearing the national colors, noting that it was a duty he bore with tremendous pride every step of the way.
Making his senior debut back in 2003, Ronaldo evolved into Portugal’s most decorated and influential player of all time. He leaves the international stage holding two unmatched men’s world records: 234 appearances and 146 goals for his country.
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The pinnacle of his international tenure arrived in 2016, when he captained A Seleção to a historic triumph at the European Championship. He later expanded his international trophy cabinet by securing two UEFA Nations League crowns, lifting the silverware in 2019 and 2025.
Ronaldo Calls Time on Historic Portugal Career After 23 Years
Bidding farewell, Ronaldo thanked the Portuguese faithful for their constant backing, emphasizing that pulling on the national jersey was the ultimate highlight of his playing days. While acknowledging that statistics and silverware can always be broken by future generations, he believes the bond forged with the supporters will endure as his true defining legacy.
With this announcement, an extraordinary 23-year international journey – defined by five major tournaments and unprecedented milestones – draws to a close.
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