November 5, 2026, will be remembered as the day one of football's greatest players announced the end of his international career.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he will retire from the Portugal national team, bringing an end to a journey that began in August 2003.
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The 41-year-old made the announcement through an emotional video message on social media, saying it was time to hand over Portugal's iconic No. 7 shirt to the next generation.
ALSO READ: Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From International Football
Ronaldo leaves the international stage as the men's all-time leading goalscorer, with 146 goals, and the most-capped player, with 234 appearances for Portugal.
In his farewell message, Ronaldo reflected on his 23-year journey with the national team and said the decision was not an easy one. He also thanked his family, teammates, coaches, staff and supporters who stood by him throughout his career.
Ronaldo made his senior international debut at the age of 18 on August 20, 2003, in a friendly against Kazakhstan. He scored his first goal for Portugal during the Euro 2004 tournament, against Greece, on home soil.
During his time with Portugal, Ronaldo captained the side to their first European Championship title in 2016. He also helped the country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025, giving Portugal three major international honours during his era.
While Ronaldo's international career has come to an end, he will continue playing club football for Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo Retirement: Football World Reacts
Ronaldo's announcement prompted tributes from current and former players, clubs and sporting organisations. Several football stars took to social media to celebrate his achievements and pay tribute to his contribution to the game.
Here are some of the reactions:
1. Neymar Jr.
Brazilian forward Neymar paid tribute to Ronaldo in the comments section of his retirement announcement. He called the Portuguese star a "Legend" and added clapping emojis.
2. Vinicius Jr.
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. also acknowledged Ronaldo's legacy, writing: "Forever number one."
3. Pepe
Ronaldo's former Portugal and Real Madrid teammate Pepe shared an emotional message for the forward, writing: "It was more than football. Thank you for everything, Cris."
4. Piers Morgan
Broadcaster Piers Morgan, who conducted Ronaldo's explosive interview in 2022, also congratulated the Portuguese star.
Morgan shared a tribute on X, calling Ronaldo the GOAT and highlighting his record-breaking 234 appearances and 146 goals for Portugal, along with the three major trophies he helped the country win.
5. Manchester United
Ronaldo's former club Manchester United also congratulated him on his international career. The Premier League club shared a message on X, praising his achievements and wishing him well in retirement from international football.
6. Juventus
Juventus, where Ronaldo played between 2018 and 2021, also paid tribute to their former forward following the announcement. The Italian club acknowledged his remarkable journey with Portugal.
7. FIFA World Cup
The official FIFA World Cup account also joined the tributes, sharing a message for the Portugal captain that read: "Thank you, Cristiano."
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