Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to bring his international career to an end, leaving behind a record-breaking legacy of 146 goals, 234 appearances and major trophies for his country.

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to retire from international football after Portugal’s November fixtures, bringing an end to a remarkable journey that began more than two decades ago.

The 41-year-old forward made the announcement in a video shared on social media, telling the Portuguese people that the time had come to hand back the country’s iconic number seven shirt.

“Portugal will always be a part of me,” he wrote alongside the announcement.

For millions of football fans, the news marks the end of an era. Ronaldo has spent 23 years representing Portugal, becoming not just the country’s captain but one of the most recognisable figures in international football.

Ronaldo’s journey with Portugal began in August 2003 when he made his senior international debut against Kazakhstan.

At just 18, he was already attracting attention for his pace, confidence and attacking ability. His performances earned him a place in Portugal’s squad for the 2004 European Championship, where the country reached the final but lost to Greece.

That tournament introduced him to a wider international audience. What followed was a career filled with goals, records, disappointment and historic achievements.

By the time of his retirement announcement, Ronaldo had made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals. Both figures are men’s international records, making him the most-capped and highest-scoring male player in international football.

He also became the first male footballer to score at six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, from Germany 2006 to the 2026 edition.

While Ronaldo has collected numerous individual awards during his club career, his greatest achievement with Portugal came at the 2016 European Championship.

After losing the Euro 2004 final on home soil, he finally lifted the European trophy 12 years later as Portugal defeated France 1-0 after extra time.

Although an injury forced him off during the final, Ronaldo remained on the touchline, encouraging his teammates as they secured the country’s first major international trophy.

He later captained Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.

His international achievements also include five Ballon d’Or awards, although these were individual honours earned across his wider football career rather than awards specifically for representing Portugal.

His final major international tournament was the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Portugal reached the knockout stage but were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the round of 16.

The World Cup campaign also marked the sixth time Ronaldo had featured at the tournament, a record he shares with Argentina’s Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo’s announcement comes after a difficult period involving Portugal’s national team coach, Jorge Jesus.

Reports by Reuters and the Associated Press indicate that the forward had a disagreement with the coach over his role in the team and left the national team camp during the previous international window.

Ronaldo later apologised and remained open to representing Portugal. However, the Portuguese Football Federation imposed a suspension and fine following the incident.

Despite the controversy, the federation expressed deep gratitude for his service, describing him as an exceptional athlete, an inspiring leader and a symbol of the national team.

Portugal is also expected to organise a special tribute to celebrate his contribution to the country.

Is this the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s football career?

Not quite.

Ronaldo’s announcement concerns international football, not his retirement from the sport altogether. He is still playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and continues to pursue the milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Portugal also has its November international fixtures remaining, which will provide Ronaldo with an opportunity to make his final appearances for the national team.

Whatever happens in those matches, his place in Portugal’s football history is already secured.