Ronaldo Retires From Portugal Duty
The 41-year-old striker ends a 23-year international career that included 146 goals and two major European titles.
By Nathan Reed ·
Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed on Thursday that he will not play for Portugal again. The announcement ends a 23-year tenure with the national team. Ronaldo is 41 years old. He holds the record for the most goals in men's international football with 146. He also holds the record for most appearances with 234.
The decision follows a disciplinary sanction from the Portuguese Football Federation. The disciplinary council suspended Ronaldo for 30 days. It also fined him 255 euros. This is the minimum penalty allowed by the rules. The sanction resulted from him leaving the team camp on September 30.
In a video shared on Instagram, Ronaldo addressed the Portuguese public. He stated that the day had come to return the number 7 jersey. He said, 'For the Portuguese people, the day has come to return the number 7 jersey of our national team.' He described the shirt as a privilege and a responsibility he carried for 23 years.
Ronaldo's international career included six World Cup appearances. He never won the tournament but reached the semifinals in Germany 2006. Portugal finished in fourth place that year. He is the all-time top scorer in the European Championship with 14 goals.
He won the European Championship in 2016. He also won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. The announcement marks the end of his time representing Portugal on the global stage.
The 255 euro fine and 30 day suspension are now official. The next step is for the federation to formally close the disciplinary file. No further matches are scheduled for Ronaldo in the immediate future.
