New Delhi, Nov 5: Ronaldo international retirement marks the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s 23-year career with Portugal. The forward confirmed his decision through an emotional video on social media. He said it was “time to give it to the future”.
The 41-year-old star made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003. He went on to become the highest goalscorer and most-capped player in men’s international football.
Ronaldo ended his international career with 146 goals in 234 appearances. His records place him among the most accomplished players in the history of the game.
Ronaldo International Retirement: Farewell to Portugal
In his farewell message, Ronaldo called representing Portugal the greatest privilege of his career. He also said the time had come to hand over the iconic number seven jersey to the next generation.
“To the Portuguese, the day has come to return the number 7 jersey of the national team to all of us. I never felt like it was exclusively mine, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, to defend it and to take it with me to the stadiums all over the world. Today the time has come to give it to the future,” he said in a video posted on X.
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Cristiano Ronaldo Reflects on His Portugal Journey
Ronaldo also looked back on the highs and lows of his international career. He recalled memorable victories and difficult defeats. However, he stressed that he never gave up on representing his country.
“There were perfect afternoons and nights; there were victories that I will never forget, and there were defeats that I still have a hard time remembering today. I also failed, I also suffered, there were also times when I was not able to give the Portuguese what they wanted so much. But I never gave up. And above all, I never stopped feeling proud to represent Portugal,” he said.
The football star also thanked his teammates, coaches and support staff. He acknowledged their contributions throughout his journey.
“To all the coaches, directors, doctors, physiotherapists, dressers, employees, and so many people who have worked with me over the years, thank you. Many of you never appeared in the photos, but without you, none of these photos would have been possible. To my family, thank you for sharing this dream with me,” he said.
Ronaldo also thanked his family for supporting him through the sacrifices and absences that came with international duty.
“Thank you for understanding the absences, sacrifices and moments when the national team had to occupy a space that also belonged to you. If I got so far, it was because we were always at hand,” he added.
Ronaldo Says He Will Always Remain Part of Portugal
Ronaldo’s departure closes a significant chapter in Portugal’s football history. The responsibility now passes to a new generation of players.
However, he made it clear that retiring from international football would not weaken his connection with the country.
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“Today I finish my walk on the pitch with the national team; I leave with my head held high, with pride in the path I took, and with the awareness that I gave everything I had for Portugal. But I will never stop being one of you,” he said.
He ended his message by thanking the country for its support over the past 23 years.
“Today I realize that the greatest victory was to have deserved to represent the best country in the world. Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for believing in me,” he concluded.
–IANS
