Cristiano Ronaldo ends 23-year Portugal career after 234 caps

Cristiano Ronaldo says he is retiring from international football, ending a Portugal career that began in 2003. The decision closes a 23-year spell in which he became a defining figure for his country and helped Portugal win Euro 2016.

Ronaldo, 41, holds the world records for international goals, with 146, and caps, with 234. He said passing on Portugal’s number seven shirt was difficult, while the Portuguese Football Federation says it wants to organise a fitting tribute; the announcement follows his departure from the squad in September after he was told he would not start against Denmark.