Lisbon:Portugal football great Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a career that spanned more than two decades and included six World Cup appearances.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the 41-year-old Ronaldo leaves the national team after winning a European Championship and becoming the all-time leading scorer in men's international football. He announced his decision in a video message on social media, indicating that it was time to return the No. 7 shirt he had worn for Portugal for 23 years.
Ronaldo described the decision as challenging, as it involved both his mind and heart. His journey with Portugal began in August 2003 and he noted that it had changed his life forever. Despite retiring from international football, Ronaldo will continue playing at the club level, finishing the current season with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, while chasing his 1,000th career goal.
His final appearance for Portugal was on September 24, in a 1-0 victory over Wales in the Nations League. Following that match, Ronaldo left the training camp after being benched by coach Jorge Jesus for the subsequent game.
The Portuguese Football Federation expressed profound gratitude and admiration for Ronaldo's service, describing him as an inspiration to young players. The federation plans to organize a special tribute to celebrate his contributions.
Ronaldo made his international debut in 2003 in a friendly against Kazakhstan, replacing Luis Figo. Under his leadership, Portugal became a regular contender at major tournaments, winning its first European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Portugal qualified for every World Cup and European Championship during Ronaldo's international career, reaching the final of the 2004 European Championship and securing fourth place at the 2006 World Cup. Ronaldo holds several international records, including being the first player to score in six World Cups and to make 200 appearances in men's international football.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo reflected on his drive to win, improve, and make history while representing his country, expressing gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey.