BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football

Portugal's forward #07 Cristiano Ronaldo waves to fans after losing the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Portugal and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 6, 2026. Football superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, has announced his retirement from Portugal's national team, bringing an end to an international career spanning more than two decades.

The 40-year-old forward made the announcement in a video shared on social media on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Ronaldo leaves the national team as international football's leading goal scorer, having recorded 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.

His achievements also place him at the top of the all-time list for international appearances, making him the holder of both records in men's national-team football. During his time with Portugal, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward helped the country win two major international trophies - the European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

Ronaldo's impact went beyond the trophies, as he played a central role in elevating Portugal's status as a competitive force in international football. His goals and leadership made him the team's defining figure for much of his career, while his record-breaking achievements attracted widespread admiration from football fans around the world.

The forward's retirement brings his Portugal career to a close, leaving behind records for international goals and appearances that stand among the most significant in the history of men's football.