Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 23-year career with Portugal in which he scored 146 goals in 234 appearances.

The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, in a video shared on his official Instagram account, saying it was time to hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt to the next generation.

Ronaldo described wearing the shirt for 23 years as both a privilege and a responsibility. He also acknowledged that the decision to step away was difficult, explaining that it was guided by both reason and emotion.

In addition, the Al-Nassr striker thanked his teammates, coaches, family and Portuguese supporters for their contributions throughout his international career, which began in August 2003.With 234 appearances and 146 goals, Ronaldo leaves the national team as the men’s all-time leading international appearance holder and highest goalscorer.

Furthermore, his international career was marked by several major achievements, including Portugal’s historic 2016 European Championship victory in France. Although an injury forced him off during the final against the hosts, his teammates went on to secure a 1-0 victory in extra time.

Portugal also won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025 under his leadership, adding to his international honours.However, his final years with the national team were not without controversy.

In September, Ronaldo reportedly left Portugal’s training camp following a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time during a Nations League fixture against Norway.The incident resulted in a 30-day suspension and a fine from the Portuguese Football Federation.

Although Ronaldo later apologised and indicated his willingness to continue representing the country, his Thursday announcement has now brought his international career to a close.

Meanwhile, his final international tournament was the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he scored three goals before Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to eventual champions Spain in the Round of 16.Despite retiring from international football, Ronaldo is expected to continue his club career with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.

His departure marks the end of a remarkable era for Portuguese football, with the forward leaving behind records of 234 international appearances and 146 goals.