Portugal Star Cristiano Ronaldo Announces End to International Career

Portugal football great Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international play in a video message on Thursday. The 41-year-old said he will hand back his number 7 shirt after the November international break.

Suspension And Return

This decision follows a recent penalty from the Portuguese football federation. The federation fined him $285 and suspended him for 30 days after he walked out of a team camp. The ban started on October 1, meaning he has already served 19 days of the suspension. He is expected to return for Portugal's Nations League match against Denmark on November 14.

The Camp Dispute

Ronaldo left the team camp during recent Nations League games because coach Jesus did not play him against Norway on September 27. He had played in an earlier win over Wales. After leaving, Ronaldo criticized coach Jesus for breaking an agreement to play him. Portugal still won their matches against Denmark and Norway to reach the quarter-finals.

Career Milestones

Ronaldo previously stated in July that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his last. He played in his sixth World Cup when Portugal faced Spain in Dallas, though the team lost in the Round of 16. He holds the record as the first player to score in six different World Cups, with goals in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026. He also holds 11 total World Cup goals as Portugal's top scorer in the tournament, alongside six Champions League titles with Manchester United and Real Madrid plus Euro and Nations League titles.

Context

International football retirements by legendary players often mark the end of an era for both national teams and global sports fans. Major tournaments like the World Cup and the UEFA Nations League frequently serve as the final stages where veteran players decide to step away from representing their countries.