Cristiano Ronaldo announced he was quitting the Portugal national football team after more than 23 years as an international player. The 41-year-old football star announced the news in a video posted to social media on Nov. 5, 2026.
Ronaldo said in his message that he felt it was time to give the next generation of players the chance to wear the number 7 shirt back in Portugal. He said the decision wasn’t easy because it was both his mind and his heart. He also thanked the Portuguese people for their support during his journey.
Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in August 2003. Since then, he has become one of the most successful players in world football. He won 234 caps for his country, netting 146 goals. Both are men’s international football records.
One of the biggest moments of his career was in 2016, when he helped Portugal win the European Championship for the first time. He had to miss out on the final because of injury but cheered on his team-mates from the sidelines as they beat France.
He helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. Ronaldo grew into a leader and an important figure in Portuguese football during his time with the national team. He also made six World Cup appearances, another record in the men’s game.
The retirement announcement follows a difficult period with the national team. Reports said Ronaldo had fallen out with head coach Jorge Jesus after being dropped from the starting line-up for a match. He later left the team’s training camp during an international break. Portuguese football authorities suspended him and fined him over the incident.
Ronaldo, in his farewell message, did not mention the disagreement. But he was thinking about the people, the memories, the wins and the tough times that had shaped his career. “It’s been an honor to represent Portugal and the country will always be a part of me,” he said.
The Portuguese Football Federation also paid tribute to the forward. He was lauded for his service to the country and for inspiring many young people to pursue their football dreams. The federation is also going to hold a tribute to celebrate his achievements with the national team.
Ronaldo may be leaving international football but he’s not retiring from the game. He is likely to continue playing for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, where he remains focused on his club career and his pursuit of the 1,000 career goals.
His decision closes a chapter in football history. For more than two decades, Ronaldo gave Portugal unforgettable goals, big wins and moments that brought fans together. His records and achievements will be in the country’s sporting history.
But looking ahead, Portugal’s number 7 shirt will belong to a new player. But the impact Ronaldo made on the national team and the memories he created with millions of fans will never be forgotten.