Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From Portugal National Team
Cristiano Ronaldo has ended his 23-year international career with Portugal, retiring as the most capped and highest-scoring player in men's football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from the Portugal national team after 23 years. The 40-year-old leaves as the most capped player and all-time leading goalscorer in international football history, with 234 appearances and 146 goals for his country.
He debuted in August 2003 and competed in 12 major tournaments, including six World Cups and six European Championships. His retirement announcement follows a recent dispute with national team coach Jorge Jesus.
Major achievements and records
Ronaldo secured Portugal's first major trophy by winning Euro 2016. He also led his nation to Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. His individual records for Portugal are unlikely to be challenged soon.
| Achievement | Record |
|---|---|
| International Appearances | 234 (men's world record) |
| International Goals | 146 (men's world record) |
| Major Tournaments Played | 12 |
| Major Trophies Won | Euro 2016, Nations League 2019, Nations League 2025 |
Retirement announcement and emotional farewell
Ronaldo announced his retirement via a heartfelt video message released on Thursday. He described the decision as difficult, involving both the head and the heart. He expressed immense pride in his journey from humble beginnings in Madeira to captaining his country.
He reflected on the symbolic weight of the number 7 jersey. "Nunca pensé que me perteneciera solo a mí," Ronaldo said regarding the shirt. He framed his departure as a natural passing of the torch. "Hoy ha llegado el momento de pasársela a las nuevas generaciones," he stated.
Ronaldo said he leaves with his head high, knowing he gave everything for Portugal. He hoped his goals brought moments of joy and national pride to fans. He thanked teammates, coaches, staff, and family, emphasizing that no captain walks alone.
Dispute with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus
The retirement followed a fall-out with head coach Jorge Jesus during the September-October international break. Ronaldo was set to be named in the squad for a Nations League fixture against Denmark on November 11, 2026, but withdrew due to the dispute.
Tensions erupted when Ronaldo left the national team camp on the eve of a match against Denmark on October 1, 2026. He was subsequently banned for 30 days and fined £215 for the walkout. Ronaldo claimed Jesus broke a promise to play him for 30 minutes in a prior match against Norway.
A meeting was held after the Norway game, attended by Al Nassr sporting director Simao Coutinho and Ronaldo's strategic adviser Tiago Craveiro. A document summarizing the conversation was reportedly drawn up. Coach Jesus later denied any agreement with Ronaldo in a press conference. Following the incident, Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi club Al Nassr, apologized to his teammates and the Portuguese public.
Portugal's next matches are Nations League fixtures against Denmark at home on November 11, 2026, and against Wales in Cardiff on November 17, 2026. These will be the first squad selections without Ronaldo available in over two decades.
