Cristiano Ronaldo has announced he is retiring from the Portugal national team. The 41-year-old posted a five-minute video on social media on Thursday under the title “Obrigado, Portugal”. The caption simply read: “Portugal will always be in me.”

In the video, Ronaldo reads a long and personal message to the Portuguese people. He says the day has come to hand back the number 7 shirt. He never felt the shirt belonged only to him. For 23 years he had the honour of wearing it, defending it and taking it into stadiums all over the world.

He admits the decision was not easy. Some choices are made with the head, he says, but others are made with the heart. Looking back, he sees more than goals and trophies. He sees people. He sees Portuguese fans living far from home who felt closer to their country for 90 minutes. He sees millions of supporters he never met but who became part of his life.

Ronaldo thanks his teammates for every run, every hug and every hard moment they shared. He says it was a privilege to be their captain. He also thanks the coaches, staff, doctors and all the people who worked behind the scenes. To his family he says thank you for sharing the dream and for understanding the sacrifices.

The numbers tell the story of a remarkable career. Ronaldo played 234 games for Portugal and scored 146 goals. Both are world records for a men’s player. He helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. The journey began in August 2003 when a young boy from Madeira first pulled on the national shirt.

The announcement comes after recent tension with coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo left the national team camp in September and was later given a 30-day suspension. Even after the ban ended, he chose to step away for good.

In the closing lines of his message, Ronaldo says he will leave with his head held high. He gave everything for Portugal. He will continue to support the team as a fan. “I spent my life working to be the best player in the world,” he says. “Today I understand that the greatest victory was earning the right to represent the best country in the world. Portugal will always be in me.”

Source: https://x.com/Cristiano/status/2118289594441474497?a=WkiB7ICtpUvgrWX9yUQ&s=19