Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From Portugal After 23-Year International Career
Ronaldo ends his international career with 234 appearances and 146 goals, and Portugal says he will remain with Al-Nassr.
- On Thursday, November 5, 2026, Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo announced his international retirement through an emotional video message on social media, ending a 23-year career with Portugal.
- His retirement follows a turbulent period after an explosive falling-out with Manager Jorge Jesus during the September international break, which resulted in a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine for walking out of Portugal's training camp.
- Ronaldo exits as the most-capped player in men's international history with 234 appearances and 146 goals, having captained Portugal to Euro 2016 victory and UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
- The Portuguese Football Federation promised a 'fitting tribute' for its 'eternal captain,' while former teammates Rio Ferdinand and Bruno Fernandes praised his legacy as the 'best player of all time.'
- Focusing on his club career with Al-Nassr, the 41-year-old forward aims for the 1,000-goal milestone, currently sitting at 985 strikes and needing only 15 more to reach the remarkable target.
921 Articles
921 Articles
Here’s a look at Cristiano Ronaldo’s major milestones with Portugal’s national team
LISBON, Portugal (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey with Portugal has come to an end. Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, the 41-year-old forward announced Thursday he was done playing for the national team. Here’s a look at the defining milestones of Ronaldo’s 23-year career with Portugal’s national team. Ronaldo’s...
Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from the Portugal national team after friction with his coach
Cristiano Ronaldo retired from the Portugal national team after 23 years. He will continue playing for Saudi club Al-Nassr and is 15 shy of 1,000 career goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo announces Portugal retirement after 23 years
The 41-year-old forward announced in an emotional message shared across his social media handles on Thursday, confirming that he was ready to hand over Portugal's iconic number seven shirt to the next generation.
Cristiano Ronaldo retires from Portugal: The No 7 shirt never belonged to me
Cristiano Ronaldo is stepping down from international soccer at 41. Here are his science-backed longevity secrets.
Cristiano Ronaldo has a reputation as a health obsessive who follows a strict regimen, but his lifestyle is more balanced than you might think.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo Retiring? What His Portugal Team Announcement Really Means
Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he was retiring from international soccer after 23 years with Portugal's National Team: "Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future."
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium











































