Portuguese Football Federation pays tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo as former captain announces retirement

The Portuguese Football Federation have paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following his retirement from international football, thanking him for his extraordinary 23-year career, during which he made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for Portugal. The federation described him as an inspiring leader and a symbol of the national team's spirit, calling him the greatest player of all time for many.

It also expressed its desire to organise a fitting farewell tribute in his honour. "The Portuguese Football Federation expresses its deepest and eternal gratitude to the legendary captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, who today announced his definitive retirement from the national team.

It is with a feeling of profound gratitude and immense admiration that the Portuguese Football Federation publicly recognises and thanks Cristiano Ronaldo for his truly extraordinary career representing our country. More than an exceptional athlete, our captain was an inspiring leader, an example of dedication and the ultimate symbol of the spirit of our national team.

Throughout a legendary international career, marked by 234 appearances and 146 goals, the captain carried the nation on his shoulders, broke records and led the team through moments that will forever be etched in the history of Portuguese football. Every drop of sweat, every decisive goal and every time he wore the captain's armband on the pitch reflected his unconditional love for our shirt.

His commitment and legacy go far beyond the pitch. Cristiano Ronaldo elevated Portugal's name and inspired generations of young people who dream of following in his footsteps.

For many of us, he is the greatest player of all time! For this reason, the Portuguese Football Federation refuses to let this farewell pass without the tribute it deserves.

It is our firm and sincere desire to organise, plan, participate in and actively contribute to what will undoubtedly be a fitting tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo's immense career, allowing the fans and the entire country to applaud and celebrate once again the player who has given us so much."