Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 23-year career with the national team.

The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday in an emotional message shared on Instagram, revealing that he would hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt after the November international break.

“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said, describing the decision as difficult and one made with both his heart and mind.

Ronaldo made his senior international debut in August 2003 against Kazakhstan and went on to become the highest-scoring player in men’s international football history, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He also holds the record for the most international appearances by a male footballer.

Reflecting on his journey, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said his time with Portugal was about more than goals, records and trophies, acknowledging the supporters, teammates, coaches and staff who shaped his career.

He admitted that the journey included disappointments and setbacks but maintained that he had always given his best and remained proud to represent his country.

Ronaldo captained Portugal to its first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship, despite being forced off with an injury during the final against France. He also helped the country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he became the first player to score at six different editions of the tournament.

Beyond international football, Ronaldo has enjoyed a decorated club career, winning five UEFA Champions League titles and league championships in England, Spain and Italy while representing clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

He also became Real Madrid’s all-time leading goalscorer during his nine-year spell at the Spanish club.

His retirement marks the end of one of the most celebrated international careers in football history, with Portugal now set to move into a new era without its long-standing captain and record goalscorer.