On Thursday, November 5, 2026, the 41-year-old shared the announcement on his social media platforms, addressing his followers, fans and especially the people of Portugal.
“To the Portuguese people, the time has come for me to return the number seven shirt I have worn for the national team. I never felt that I alone deserved it,” he said.
“For the past 23 years, wearing it has been both an honour and a responsibility. Wearing it with pride and taking it to stadiums around the world has been incredibly meaningful. Now the time has come for me to make way for the future.”
Ronaldo said representing his country had always been a source of pride, but deciding to end his international career had been difficult.
“It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made by the mind alone; they also require the heart. The journey that began in 2003 changed my entire life. Now it has come to an end,” he said.
“When I look back on everything I experienced with the national team, I do not see only matches, goals, records or trophies. I see people, Portuguese people around the world who felt close to their country.”
“I see millions of people I never met, but who became part of my family because football became more than just a game. Football is about people.”
The Al Nassr forward said he had always given everything he could while representing Portugal, pushing himself beyond his limits because he wanted to win and make history.
He added that he had made sacrifices and given his all for the national team shirt because he believed he could achieve more.
Ronaldo joined Portugal’s national team, known as the Seleção, in 2003. He retires after making 234 appearances and scoring 146 goals, making him the country’s all-time leading international scorer.
He helped Portugal win three major trophies: the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. He is also the only player to have scored in six different editions of the FIFA World Cup.
His retirement announcement comes after a reported disagreement with Portugal national team coach Jorge Jesus, which led to Ronaldo leaving the team’s training camp. He was subsequently handed a 30-day suspension and fined €255, equivalent to approximately Rwf422,280.
