Ronaldo Retires from International Football After 23 Years, 146 Goals

END OF AN ERA! Cristiano Ronaldo bows out of international football after 23 years, 234 appearances and a record 146 goals for Portugal. A legend, a leader and a history-maker.

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Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an illustrious 23-year career with the Portugal national team.

The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, in an emotional video shared on his social media platforms, saying he would hand back Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt after the November international break.

Ronaldo bows out as the highest-scoring player in men’s international football history, with a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.

Since making his international debut in August 2003, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward has established himself as one of the greatest players in football history.

He captained Portugal to its first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship and also helped the country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

His international career also featured six FIFA World Cup appearances, an unprecedented achievement in men’s football.

In his farewell message, Ronaldo described representing Portugal as one of the greatest privileges of his life, thanking the Portuguese people, his teammates, coaches, technical staff and family for their support throughout the journey.

His final appearance for Portugal came in September 2026, when the team defeated Wales 1-0 in a Nations League fixture.

Ronaldo’s retirement from international football does not mark the end of his playing career, as he is expected to continue representing Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

His departure brings to a close an extraordinary chapter in which he transformed Portugal’s football history through his goals, leadership, records and remarkable longevity.