Cristiano Ronaldo has brought his 23-year international career with Portugal to an end, announcing his retirement from the national team on Thursday, November 5.

The 41-year-old forward confirmed the decision in a video posted across his social media platforms, saying he was ready to give up the number seven shirt after representing his country for more than two decades.

Ronaldo described the decision as an emotional one, thanking his family, teammates, coaches, staff and Portuguese supporters for their contributions throughout his international journey.

“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” Ronaldo said.

“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”

He also reflected on the memories his performances had created for supporters, saying that making people happy and giving them reasons to feel proud of their country had made the experience worthwhile.

The Al-Nassr forward leaves the national team as Portugal’s most-capped player and leading goalscorer, with 234 appearances and 146 goals. Both milestones are men’s international records.

His international career began in 2003 and included six World Cup appearances and six European Championship campaigns. He captained Portugal to their first major international title at Euro 2016 before adding Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025.

Interestingly, Ronaldo’s retirement comes weeks after his long-time rival Lionel Messi played his farewell match for Argentina in a friendly against the Republic of Benin on October 7. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s final appearance for Portugal came in a 1-0 victory over Wales on September 24.

His retirement also follows a difficult period with head coach Jorge Jesus, which saw the forward leave the national team’s training camp during the September international break.

The disagreement followed Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction with his role in the team. He subsequently apologised for his departure, but the Portuguese Football Federation handed him a 30-day suspension and a fine.

Jesus confirmed on Thursday that he had previously spoken with Ronaldo about his international future and had asked him to remain with the team.

The coach said he respected the forward’s decision, describing him as a global football reference and an important figure for Portugal.

“I asked him to stay, to stay with me because I needed him to be by my side, but I have to accept his decision. He is a world reference, a reference for Portugal, a reference for the national team,” the former Al-Nassr coach said.

The Portuguese Football Federation also paid tribute to Ronaldo, praising his contribution to the national team and describing him as an inspiring leader whose career had influenced generations of young players. It added that plans would be made to honour him in recognition of his service to the country.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is also closing in on another career milestone, having scored 985 senior career goals as he pursues the target of reaching 1,000 in the colours of Al-Nassr.