Cristiano Ronaldo has officially called time on his international career, announcing Thursday that he will no longer represent Portugal. The 41-year-old forward, who holds world records for both goals and appearances for a national team, confirmed the decision in a video message posted in the morning.
"It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made with the head alone. They are also made with the heart," Ronaldo said in the video. "I am bringing to an end a journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever."
Ronaldo's international journey started on August 20, 2003, in a friendly against Kazakhstan, and concluded on September 27, 2026, in a match against Norway. Over those 21 years, he amassed 146 goals in 255 appearances, both all-time records for a men's national team player.
His crowning achievement came in 2016, when he led Portugal to its first major international trophy at the European Championship. Despite exiting the final against France early due to injury, Ronaldo was the first to lift the trophy after Portugal's 1-0 extra-time victory. He also captained Portugal to UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. His 14 goals across six European Championships are the most in tournament history.
While a World Cup title eluded him, Ronaldo remains the only male player to score in six different World Cups, netting 11 goals overall. His first came from a penalty against Iran in the 2006 group stage, and his last, also a penalty, was scored against Croatia in the Round of 32 in 2026. He also represented Portugal at the 2004 Olympics in Athens.
Ronaldo's retirement comes less than a week after he scored a hat-trick for Saudi club Al Nassr, where he continues his club career. He has seven goals for the Saudi Pro League side this season.
Portugal will now look to defend its Nations League title without its longtime captain. The team's first major tournament without Ronaldo will be the 2028 European Championship, followed by the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host.
Political analysts note that Ronaldo's departure marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, similar to how other national icons have transitioned. As Portugal prepares for the future, the focus shifts to a new generation of players. For more on political transitions, see the changing of the guard in the U.S. Senate and the upcoming Iowa Senate race.
