Cristiano Ronaldo announces end of international career with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to end his international career with Portugal after the November break. The 41-year-old forward made the decision public on Thursday. It will bring 23 years with the national team to a close, a journey that took him to five World Cups, from the 2006 edition in Germany to the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Portugal reached the semi-finals at the 2006 World Cup.

His departure is therefore planned for after the November international break. Ronaldo acknowledged that the choice had been difficult. In a social media post, he said he would « hand back the number 7 shirt » after the break. « It wasn’t an easy decision, because some decisions aren’t made with reason alone, but with the heart too, » he wrote.

His message also addressed supporters and the emotions his goals may have brought them. « If I’ve made you happy one day, or if one of my goals made you hug someone, forget your worries or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it, » he said. He also thanked his family, the Portuguese people, his teammates, coaches and the staff who had accompanied him. He closed by expressing his lasting connection to his country: « Portugal will always be part of me. »

Ronaldo began his international career with Portugal in 2003. In 2016, he led the national team to the European Championship title, the country’s first continental trophy. Sabq describes him as one of the most significant players in the team’s history. The outlet also credits him with the men’s football records for international appearances and goals: he has passed 200 caps and 140 goals.

The announcement comes weeks after a public dispute between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus prompted the player to leave the national-team camp. Last October, Ronaldo had confirmed that he was ready to return to the squad. He now plans to hand back the number 7 shirt after the November break.