Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing a remarkable 23-year career with the Portugal national team to a close.
Making his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003 as an 18-year-old against Kazakhstan, Ronaldo evolved into his country's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player. Across 234 appearances, the forward scored 146 goals, cementing his status as the highest-scoring men's international player in football history. He notably captained the Seleção to their historic Euro 2016 triumph, followed by victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
The announcement follows recent tensions surrounding the national squad. During the previous international break, Ronaldo departed the camp after remaining an unused substitute in a Nations League fixture against Norway. Although head coach Jorge Jesus had previously indicated the player remained part of his plans, Ronaldo later alleged a broken promise regarding playing time, leading to a temporary suspension and fine by the Portuguese Football Federation.
