Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 23-year journey with Portugal to a close. The 41-year-old confirmed that he would hand back the national team’s iconic No. 7 shirt after the November international break.
Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003 and went on to become the country’s most successful international player. He finished his career with 234 appearances and 146 goals, holding the men’s world records for both international caps and goals.
From Debut to Global Records
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut as a teenager and gradually became the central figure in the national team. He captained the side for 172 matches and recorded 141 victories, establishing himself as one of the most influential players in the country’s football history.
His international achievements include scoring at six FIFA World Cups and six European Championships. He also became the first player to score in six different editions of the men’s FIFA World Cup.
At the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo scored three goals, taking his overall World Cup tally to 11. Portugal’s campaign ended in the Round of 16 with a 1-0 defeat to eventual champions Spain.
Three Major International Trophies
One of the defining moments of Ronaldo’s Portugal career came at Euro 2016 in France. Despite leaving the final early because of injury, he captained Portugal to its first-ever European Championship title.
Portugal added the UEFA Nations League trophy in 2019, defeating the Netherlands in the final. The team won the competition again in 2025, giving Ronaldo three major international titles as captain.
A Record-Breaking Portugal Career
Ronaldo retires with several records that underline his impact on international football:
- 234 appearances: Most caps in men’s international football.
- 146 goals: Highest goalscorer in men’s international football.
- 141 victories: Most wins in his Portugal career.
- Six World Cups: First player to score in six different editions.
- Six European Championships: Scored at six editions of the tournament.
- 172 captaincies: Led Portugal in 172 matches.
Ronaldo’s international retirement does not mark the end of his playing career. He is expected to continue representing Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, while Portugal prepares for a new chapter without its long-time captain.
