Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from Portugal national team

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his intention to retire from international football on Thursday, bringing an end to his 23-year career with the Portugal national team.

The 41-year-old said he would hand back the iconic number 7 shirt after the November international break.

Ronaldo has made a record 234 appearances for Portugal, scoring 146 goals. He holds the all-time records for both international appearances and goals.

The football star broke the news in a lengthy Instagram video, accompanied by an emotional statement in which he reflected on his journey with the national team.

“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” he said.

“I never thought it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years, I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it.”

“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” said Ronaldo.

“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”

Ronaldo thanked his family, the Portuguese people and the teammates, coaches and staff he worked with over his 23-year career with national team.

“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he captioned the announcement video.

Ronaldo’s announcement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, with the forward having established himself as one of the most influential players in the history of the game.

His international career has spanned more than two decades, during which he became a global sporting icon and inspired generations of football fans.

The announcement also prompted an emotional response from fans across social media platforms, with many reflecting on his contribution to football and the memories associated with his career.

“Football feels like it’s losing a part of its soul. Childhood memories, unforgettable nights, one name. CR7,” one fan on social media wrote.

“You didn’t just play for Portugal, you made an entire generation fall in love with football. Records will be broken, trophies will fade, but your legacy will live forever. There will never be another Cristiano Ronaldo,” another fan commented.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was one of the most decorated players of all time, winning major trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and current club Al-Nassr since making his senior debut for Sporting in 2002.

Ronaldo had earlier hinted at his retirement in an interview with lifestyle magazine Vogue, saying “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy”.

Ronaldo was unable to add a World Cup title to his list of honours after Portugal fell short at this year’s tournament, leaving the sport’s biggest prize absent from his trophy cabinet.