Ronaldo ends 23-year Portugal career after benching dispute
The 41-year-old star retires from international soccer but will continue playing club football in Saudi Arabia.
By Anthony Brooks ·
Cristiano Ronaldo will no longer represent Portugal in international soccer. The 41-year-old announced his retirement on Thursday, bringing a close to a national team career that began in 2003 and ended in a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo stated in a video message that he is handing back the No. 7 shirt after 23 years of service. He described the decision as a difficult one made with both heart and mind. The forward will remain active at the club level, where he is expected to finish the current season with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. He is currently chasing his 1,000th career goal and has recorded 985 so far, including 146 in 234 appearances for his country.
The split from the national squad followed a specific incident during the Nations League. Ronaldo’s last match for Portugal was a 1-0 home victory over Wales on Sept. 24. For the subsequent game, Jesus placed him on the bench and indicated he would not start the following match. Ronaldo departed the team’s training camp in response. Jesus later said the door remained open for a return, leaving the final decision to the player.
The Portuguese soccer federation released a statement expressing deep gratitude and immense admiration for Ronaldo’s service. The body called him the greatest player of all time for many and said it plans to organize a tribute event for fans. The federation noted that Ronaldo raised the country’s profile and inspired younger generations.
Ronaldo’s tenure transformed Portugal’s standing in global soccer. Before his debut in 2003, the nation had never won a major trophy. During his career, Portugal claimed the 2016 European Championship and the Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. He was the first man to score in six World Cups, a record that includes his 11 goals at this year’s tournament. He also holds the all-time records for men’s international appearances and European Championship goals.
The former forward reflected on his journey in his farewell message. He said he always pushed himself to be better and to make history. He acknowledged the defeats that still hurt to remember but expressed pride in representing his country. His final act was passing the torch to the next generation of Portuguese players.
Ronaldo’s departure marks the end of an era defined by consistent qualification for major tournaments. Under his leadership, Portugal qualified for every World Cup and European Championship held since his arrival. His next focus will be his final season with Al-Nassr as he continues his pursuit of the 1,000-goal milestone.
