Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from the Portugal national team, bringing an end to a record-breaking international career that spanned nearly two decades.
The 41-year-old forward leaves as Portugal's all-time leading scorer with 146 goals in 234 appearances, records that stand as the highest in men's international football history. Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal in 2003 and captained the side to European Championship glory in 2016 and the inaugural Nations League title in 2019.
Reaction from Gabriel Jesus
Brazil and Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus expressed surprise at the decision, stating he had expected Ronaldo to continue playing for his country. "I thought he'd come back," Jesus said, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who witnessed Ronaldo's enduring fitness and competitive drive well into his late 30s.
The announcement was made on Friday, November 6, 2026, marking the conclusion of one of the most decorated international careers in the sport's history.
