According to a report by ESPN on Thursday November 05, 2026, Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41, bringing an end to an extraordinary 23-year career with the national team. Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41, bringing an end to an extraordinary 23-year career with the national team.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner confirmed his decision on Thursday, November 5, 2026, through a video message shared on his social media accounts, revealing that he would relinquish Portugal's famous number seven shirt after the November international break.

Ronaldo leaves international football as the men's all-time leading goalscorer, having registered 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. His remarkable achievements also include captaining his country to its first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship and winning two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

In his farewell message, the Al-Nassr forward reflected on the significance of representing his country and the responsibility that came with wearing the number seven shirt.

"To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team," Ronaldo said.

He added that although the decision was difficult, he believed it was time to allow the next generation to take over, describing his international journey, which began in August 2003, as one that had changed his life forever.

His announcement follows a disagreement with national team coach Jorge Jesus during the September international break. Ronaldo reportedly left the team's training camp after being left out of the starting lineup and subsequently received a 30-day suspension and a fine.

Reacting to his retirement, the Portuguese Football Federation expressed deep gratitude for his contributions and described him as an inspirational figure who had influenced generations of footballers. The federation also indicated plans to organise a special tribute in his honour.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo's retirement concerns only international football, as he is expected to continue his club career with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.

The announcement marks the end of one of the most celebrated international careers in football history.