Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the national team.
The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, in a video message shared on social media, saying the time had come to hand over Portugal's iconic number seven shirt after the November international break.
Ronaldo leaves Portugal as the country's record goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.
He also holds the records for the most international appearances and goals in men's football.
In his emotional farewell message, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner reflected on his journey with Portugal, which began in August 2003.
"To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No. 7 shirt of our national team.
"I never felt it belonged to me alone.
"But for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world.
"Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future.
"It was not an easy decision.
"Because some decisions are not made with the mind alone.
"They are also made with the heart," Ronaldo said.
Portugal estará sempre em mim pic.twitter.com/dnFj51rxmh
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 5, 2026
Ronaldo's international career included winning the 2016 European Championship, Portugal's first major international trophy, and two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
He also represented his country at a record six FIFA World Cups, becoming the first player to score at six editions of the tournament.
The Al Nassr forward's decision comes after a turbulent period with the national team, including a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus that saw him leave Portugal's training camp in October.
Ronaldo had previously insisted he was not retiring and remained available for selection after serving any disciplinary punishment.
However, Thursday's announcement confirms his decision to bring his international career to a close.
His retirement will not affect his club career, with the forward expected to continue playing for Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.
Ronaldo is also pursuing the milestone of 1,000 career goals, having scored 985 at the time of the announcement, according to reports.
The Portuguese Football Federation has expressed its gratitude for his service and said it intends to organise a fitting tribute to celebrate his contribution to the national team.
Ronaldo's departure marks the end of an era for Portugal, with the forward having spent more than two decades leading the country's attack and establishing himself as one of the most prolific international players in football history.
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