LISBON — Portugal football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international competition, signaling the end of an era for both his national team and global football.
In a public statement reflecting on his storied career, the veteran forward declared that "the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt." Ronaldo steps away as one of the most decorated players in international history, having led Portugal through numerous major tournaments and capturing historic silverware for his country.
Throughout his unprecedented tenure with the national squad, Ronaldo established numerous records for both caps and goals, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of modern Portuguese football.
