Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the Portugal national team after 23 years, ending an era for one of football's greatest players. The 41-year-old, who will turn 42 next year, made the announcement on November 5, 2026, via a video message on social media.
Ronaldo leaves as Portugal's all-time leading scorer with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He captained the team to victory at Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles. His decision follows that of long-time rival Lionel Messi, who retired from the Argentina national team last month.
The retirement comes after a reported rift with head coach Jorge Jesus. Last month, Ronaldo left Portugal's training camp on his private jet following a disagreement with the coach. He later issued an open letter apologizing to fans and teammates without mentioning the manager. The Portuguese federation suspended him for 30 days, though he remained eligible for upcoming matches against Denmark and Wales.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo said: "To the Portuguese people, the day has come to hand back the number seven shirt of the national team that belongs to us all... Today the time has come to hand it over to the future." He reflected on his journey from his debut in August 2003, stating that football is about people and that he gave everything for the shirt.
Ronaldo played his sixth and final World Cup this summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where Portugal were eliminated by Spain in the round of 16. He emphasized that while goals and trophies fade, the place held in people's hearts endures.
