Ronaldo Retires from Portugal National Team After 23 Years
The 41-year-old striker stepped down following a 30-day suspension and a fine for leaving the squad camp in September.
By Lorenzo Patterson ·
Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Thursday that he will no longer play for Portugal. The decision ends a 23-year international career that spanned six World Cups and included a European Championship title.
In a video shared on Instagram, Ronaldo said it is time to return the number 7 shirt to the Portuguese people. He described his tenure as a privilege and a responsibility to defend the jersey in stadiums around the world.
The announcement comes shortly after the Portuguese Football Federation disciplined the player. The Disciplinary Council issued a 30-day suspension and a 255 euro fine on September 30. The penalty was the minimum allowed under the rules for leaving the national team camp.
Ronaldo holds the all-time record for goals in men's international football with 146. He also holds the record for most appearances, with 234 matches for his country.
His trophy cabinet with the national side includes the 2016 European Championship and the UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. He is also the all-time leading scorer in European Championship history with 14 goals.
Although he never won a World Cup, Ronaldo reached the semifinals in Germany in 2006. Portugal finished in fourth place in that tournament.
