By — Tales Azzoni, Associated Press Tales Azzoni, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-his-international-retirement-from-portugal Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Cristiano Ronaldo announces his international retirement from Portugal Nation Nov 5, 2026 1:03 PM EST Cristiano Ronaldo won't play for Portugal anymore, ending on Thursday a career that spanned six World Cups and included a European title and the men's all-time international scoring record. His announcement marked the end of a lauded career that began more than two decades ago before Euro 2004 and finished with him walking out on the national team after falling out with coach Jorge Jesus. READ MORE: Goals, technology and hydration breaks: How the biggest World Cup in history will be remembered "To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No. 7 shirt of our national team," the 41-year-old Ronaldo said in a long video message on social media. "I never felt it belonged to me alone but for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing…
Cristiano Ronaldo announces his international retirement from Portugal
In short
The decision brings an end to an era that began in August 2003 and saw Portugal secure major silverware, including Euro 2016 and two Nations League crowns. The Portuguese soccer federation lauded him as the greatest player of all time and announced plans to hold an official tribute in his honor. Meanwhile, Ronaldo will maintain his club commitments with Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr through the end of the season as he chases a milestone of 1,000 career goals.
Key points
- The veteran attacker will continue playing club soccer for Al-Nassr as he aims to reach 9…: The veteran attacker will continue playing club soccer for Al-Nassr as he aims to reach 985 to 1,000 career goals.
- Portugal's soccer federation plans to stage a tribute honoring the forward for his 23 yea…: Portugal's soccer federation plans to stage a tribute honoring the forward for his 23 years of national service.
- Manager Jorge Jesus welcomed the veteran forward back to the squad, but Ronaldo chose to…: Manager Jorge Jesus welcomed the veteran forward back to the squad, but Ronaldo chose to end his international career permanently.