The veteran forward will formally surrender the iconic No. 7 shirt after making 234 appearances and scoring 146 goals for his country. His extensive international tenure began with a senior debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003 and featured his very first goal against Greece at Euro 2004. Across more than two decades, he established himself as a dominant tournament presence, amassing 124 competitive goals and 10 hat-tricks for the national side.
Key points
The 41-year-old team captain led Portugal to their historic first European Championship t…: The 41-year-old team captain led Portugal to their historic first European Championship trophy in 2016 alongside Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
His remarkable scoring record for his nation included 124 competitive goals, 10 internati…: His remarkable scoring record for his nation included 124 competitive goals, 10 international hat-tricks, and two four-goal matches.
The veteran star is officially vacating the Portuguese No. 7 shirt following the conclusi…: The veteran star is officially vacating the Portuguese No. 7 shirt following the conclusion of the November international break.
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The 41-year-old confirmed his decision in a lengthy video message on social media, saying he would "hand back the No. 7 shirt" after the November international break.
Portugal estará sempre em mim https://t.co/dnFj51rxmh
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 5, 2026
"I never felt it belonged to me alone but for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world," he added.
Ronaldo made 234 appearances for Portugal, scoring 146 goals since making his international debut against Kazakhstan on August 20, 2003. His first international goal came against Greece during Euro 2004, marking the beginning of a career that would establish him as one of the most prolific players in international football.
Of his 146 goals for Portugal, 124 came in competitive fixtures, including FIFA World Cup matches, European Championships, UEFA Nations League games and qualifiers. The remaining 22 goals came in international friendlies.
Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo announces international retirement: A look at his 234 appearances, 146 goals and other Portugal records
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