Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football after 23 years

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a 23-year career with the Portugal national team, according to Al Jazeera English.

Ronaldo, who is 41 years old, made 234 appearances and scored a record 146 goals for Portugal, making him the all-time leader in both international appearances and goals, DW English reported.

He announced his decision via social media, stating he would 'hand back the number 7 shirt' and reflected on the emotional nature of the choice, as reported by Al Jazeera English and DW English.

During his international career, Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major trophy at Euro 2016 and helped win the Nations League in 2019 and 2025, noted DW English.

His final appearance was in a Nations League win over Wales in September 2026. The decision followed a public disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over playing time, after which Ronaldo left the national team training camp, DW English detailed.

The Portuguese Football Federation expressed deep gratitude and admiration for Ronaldo's contributions to the national team, according to DW English.