Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From Portugal National Team After 234 Caps

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end a 23-year career with Portugal that redefined what was possible for a national team player.

The 41-year-old confirmed the decision on social media on Thursday, stating that the day had come to hand back the number seven shirt. No player has won more caps or scored more goals for a national side. Ronaldo finishes with 234 appearances and 146 goals, both all-time men’s records.

He made his debut in August 2003 and captained Portugal to their first major trophy at Euro 2016. He later added UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. Ronaldo also became the first player to score at six different World Cups, with his final major tournament appearance coming at the 2026 edition.

His final months with the national team were marked by conflict with coach Jorge Jesus. In early October, Ronaldo left the Portugal camp without permission after claiming the coach had twice failed to keep promises over his involvement and how the situation would be explained publicly. The Portuguese Football Federation subsequently suspended him for 30 days.

Ronaldo had planned to retire after the summer’s World Cup, but Jesus and the federation persuaded him to continue. Jesus made clear he would not offer preferential treatment, insisting that team selection remained his sole responsibility regardless of a player’s status. The relationship never recovered, and Ronaldo’s last appearance for Portugal came in a 1-0 Nations League win over Wales on 24 September.

In an emotional farewell message, Ronaldo thanked the Portuguese people, his family, teammates and staff, saying Portugal would always be in him. The Portuguese Football Federation has indicated it plans to organise a tribute. Ronaldo will continue his club career with Al-Nassr.