Cristiano Ronaldo Draws the Curtain on International Football, Announces Retirement

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to retire from international football after the November international break, bringing an end to a record-breaking career with Portugal.

The 41-year-old forward, who has made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for his country, confirmed the decision on Thursday.

Ronaldo holds the records for the most appearances and goals in men’s international football. His Portugal career began in 2003 and included major honours, including the 2016 European Championship.

The announcement comes weeks after Ronaldo’s reported fallout with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo left the national team camp in September after being an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start in the following Nations League match against Denmark.

The forward later accused Jesus of breaking his word over his expected playing time, while also apologising for leaving the camp and accepting that his actions should have consequences.

Ronaldo’s international retirement will close a historic chapter for Portugal, where he became the country’s most-capped player and leading goalscorer.