Ronaldo Retires After 146 International Goals
The 41-year-old forward ends a 23-year national career following a recent disciplinary fine.
By Zoe Harrison ·
Cristiano Ronaldo will not play for Portugal again.
The announcement came on Thursday via a video posted to his Instagram account. The 41-year-old said he is returning the number 7 jersey to the Portuguese people. He described the shirt as a privilege and a responsibility he carried for 23 years.
Ronaldo holds the men's all-time record for international goals with 146. He also holds the record for most international appearances with 234 matches. His career included six World Cup tournaments. Portugal won the 2016 European Championship under his leadership. The team also claimed the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
He is the top scorer in European Championship history with 14 goals. Portugal reached the 2006 World Cup semifinals and finished in fourth place in Germany. He never won a World Cup title.
The decision follows a disciplinary action by the Portuguese Football Federation. The body suspended him for 30 days and fined him 255 euros. This was the minimum penalty allowed by the rules. The sanction resulted from his departure from the national team camp on September 30.
