Ronaldo Retires From Portugal After 23 Years

In a five-minute video, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo handed back the number 7 shirt he wore for 23 years. The 41-year-old leaves the national team with 146 goals in 234 appearances, both records for men’s international football. He called the decision difficult and said his time on the pitch for Portugal had ended, but the federation says his farewell will include a tribute. ^1,3

Ronaldo’s 23-year journey began with his Portugal debut in August 2003. He announced his retirement on Thursday, before coach Jorge Jesus was due to name his squad for the November break. The move followed a falling-out with Jesus: Ronaldo left the team camp after learning he would not start against Denmark, then served a suspension. The dispute left his place in the coming matches uncertain. ^1,2,14

Those matches were expected to be the final Nations League group games, against Denmark on 14 November and Wales on 17 November. Ronaldo’s choice means Portugal will now move forward without its long-time captain and record scorer. His legacy includes leading the team to Euro 2016, Portugal’s first European Championship, and two Nations League titles. The Portuguese Football Federation praised him as an inspiring leader and said it would ensure his farewell included a proper tribute. ^1,3,9

The tribute is now the next step: the federation says it plans to organise an event where fans can thank Ronaldo in person. Reports have not announced a date or format. Ronaldo is not retiring from club football; he continues to play for Saudi club Al-Nassr, while his Portugal career is over. ^3,8,9