Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from Portuguese national team

Developing story first seen 5 hours ago

CNA · 5 hours ago

Ronaldo has announced his retirement from Portugal’s national team, with a dispute over his place in the side clouding the end of a record-breaking international career. The 41-year-old’s announcement came on social media, after coach Jorge Jesus left him out against Norway, and without the stadium farewell many might have expected.

Ronaldo made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for Portugal, both men’s international records. He helped the team win Euro 2016 and Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, but never won the World Cup; his last attempt ended with Portugal’s defeat by Spain in this year’s last 16. The Portuguese Football Federation thanked him and said he should receive a fitting tribute, though it is unclear whether that will happen on the pitch.

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In short

Ronaldo has announced his retirement from Portugal’s national team.
His 234 appearances and 146 goals are men’s international records.
Portugal says he deserves a tribute, but its form is uncertain.

How this story developed

2 hours ago Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that he intends to retire from Portugal’s national team after the November international break, bringing a 23-year international career to a close.
2 hours ago Ronaldo has announced his retirement from Portugal’s national team, with a dispute over his place in the side clouding the end of a record-breaking international career.

Explained simply

Portugal’s national football team represents the country in international competitions, including the European Championship and the World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo has played for Portugal since 2003 and became one of its most prominent players.

Ronaldo helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. The World Cup is the major international trophy he did not win, and his career has included debate over his role as he got older. His record of appearances and goals makes his time with the team significant to Portuguese football.