Photo by mrogowski_photography - Depositphotos Криштиану Роналду Португалия

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his decision to retire from international football, bringing an extraordinary chapter with the Portugal national team to an end. The 41-year-old forward and captain revealed his decision in a statement shared on his social media accounts.

In an emotional message addressed to the Portuguese people, Ronaldo reflected on his 23-year journey wearing the national team shirt and explained why the time had come to pass it on to the next generation.

Ronaldo’s Message to Portugal

“The day has come to return the number seven shirt of the national team — a shirt that belongs to all of us. I have never considered it mine alone. But for 23 years, I have had the honour and enormous responsibility of wearing it, defending its colours and representing Portugal in stadiums all over the world. Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future.

This was not an easy decision, because some decisions are made not only with the mind, but also with the heart. A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever is now coming to an end.”

Ronaldo’s international career has spanned more than two decades, making him one of the most recognisable figures in Portuguese football history. His announcement marks the end of an era for the national team.