Ronaldo announces retirement from international football
PORTUGAL: Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football. The 41-year-old striker confirmed his decision on November 5 through a farewell video published on Instagram, bringing his extraordinary journey with the Portugal national team to a close after 23 years.
The announcement comes amid a turbulent period for Ronaldo, whose relationship with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus deteriorated during the October international break. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner left the national team’s training camp following disagreements with the manager over his playing time.
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Interestingly, Ronaldo had previously insisted that he remained available to represent Portugal and had even been included in the preliminary squad for November’s Nations League fixtures. However, just one day before the final squad announcement, the legendary forward made his definitive decision.
Ronaldo made his international debut in 2003 and helped Portugal win the European Championship in 2016, as well as the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. His retirement from the national team does not mean the end of his club career with Al Nassr.
