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According to a report by Daily Post on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to retire from international football has sparked emotional tributes from teammates, former colleagues, football clubs and prominent figures across the football world.
The 41-year-old Portuguese forward announced his retirement on Thursday through a five-minute video shared across his social media platforms, bringing an end to his remarkable 23-year career with the Portugal national team.
Ronaldo bows out of international football with an outstanding record of 234 appearances and 146 goals, making him the most-capped player and highest goalscorer in men's international football history.
During his time with Portugal, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star won three major international trophies, establishing himself as one of the greatest players to have represented his country.
Following the announcement, fans across the world took to social media to celebrate his achievements and express their appreciation for his contributions to Portuguese football.
Several prominent football personalities and clubs also joined the tributes, with many acknowledging Ronaldo's influence on the game and the inspiration he provided to younger generations.
His former Manchester United teammate Rio Ferdinand reacted to Ronaldo's Instagram announcement with an emotional message, writing: "It was a movie bro."
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, who currently wears the iconic No. 7 shirt previously made famous by Ronaldo at the Spanish club, also paid tribute to the Portuguese legend.
"Forever number 1," Vinicius wrote.
Manchester United, where Ronaldo enjoyed two spells during his club career, also acknowledged his remarkable achievements and contributions to Portuguese football.
Portugal teammate Diogo Dalot expressed his gratitude to the veteran forward, highlighting the impact he had on the national team.
"You made us dream, you made us believe, and you made us WIN! Thank you, idol," Dalot wrote.
Another Portugal teammate, Bruno Fernandes, described sharing the national team dressing room with Ronaldo as a special privilege, revealing that he grew up admiring the former Real Madrid star.
"Thank you for the inspiration. It was a privilege to be able to share great moments for our selection with my childhood idol," Fernandes said.
Sporting CP, the Portuguese club where Ronaldo began his professional football journey before moving to Manchester United in 2003, also celebrated his legacy.
"Thank you for everything you did for our nation. Forever in Portugal's history," the club stated.
Ronaldo made his senior international debut for Portugal in 2003 and went on to become the country's most influential football figure for more than two decades.
His international career was marked by historic achievements, including major tournament victories and numerous individual records that established him as one of the most successful players in international football.