New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo has brought the curtain down on his illustrious international career, ending a 23-year association with Portugal during which he established himself as one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game.
The 41-year-old forward leaves behind an extraordinary record of 146 goals in 234 appearances for his country. His international journey included Portugal’s triumph at the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles, according to reports.
Ronaldo made his senior international debut in 2003 at the age of 18. Over the following two decades, he became the face of Portuguese football, representing his country in six FIFA World Cups and six European Championships. His six World Cup appearances place him alongside Lionel Messi in the record books.
Despite his remarkable collection of individual records and team honours, the one achievement that remained beyond his reach was winning the FIFA World Cup. Portugal’s best performances during his international career came with a semi-final appearance in Germany in 2006 and a quarter-final finish in Qatar in 2022.
His final appearance at the global tournament came during Portugal’s 1-0 defeat against Spain at this summer’s World Cup. The loss proved particularly painful for the veteran forward, who was seen leaving the field in tears.
Ronaldo’s final international outing came against Wales in September, when he featured for 67 minutes in Portugal’s 1-0 Nations League victory. He was subsequently left out of the starting line-up for the match against Norway, triggering tensions with manager Jorge Jesus.
The disagreement reportedly escalated, with Ronaldo leaving the national team’s camp and travelling away in his private aircraft during the September-October international break. Although a return for the upcoming fixtures against Denmark and Wales appeared possible, he has instead opted to end his international career.
Announcing his decision, Ronaldo reflected on the significance of representing Portugal and acknowledged that stepping away from the national team was an emotional choice.
Ronaldo added that the opportunity to bring happiness and pride to Portuguese supporters had made his journey worthwhile. He recalled the moments before international matches when the national anthem brought players and fans together, regardless of their differences.
His farewell also comes at a significant moment for his family, with his 16-year-old son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., receiving a call-up to Portugal’s Under-17 squad this week. The teenager could represent the next generation of the Ronaldo family in Portuguese football.
One of the most memorable chapters of Ronaldo’s international career came during the 2016 European Championship final against France. Forced off the pitch through injury, he remained intensely involved from the touchline, encouraging teammates and offering instructions as Portugal went on to secure their first major international trophy.
That night captured the intensity with which he represented his country, even when he could no longer contribute on the field.
