Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41, bringing an end to a historic career with the Portugal national team.
Ronaldo made the announcement in a social media post on Thursday, describing the decision as difficult and saying the time had come to “pass it on to the future.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also confirmed that he would give up Portugal’s iconic No. 7 shirt following the November international break.
His retirement marks the end of an extraordinary international career spanning several years, during which he established himself as one of football’s most accomplished players.
Ronaldo leaves the national team with 234 appearances and 146 goals, making him the most-capped player and highest goalscorer in men’s international football history.
His achievements with Portugal include winning the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League, cementing his place in the country’s football history.
Further details on his retirement and future plans are expected to emerge.
