Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football
The 41-year-old forward ends a 23-year career with 146 goals and 234 appearances for Portugal.
Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on Thursday through a video shared on social media. According to reports from Hindustan Times, Deccan Chronicle and News18, the 41-year-old veteran is stepping away from the national team after a career that began in August 2003.
Ronaldo, who holds the record as the all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player in international football, stated he would hand back the number 7 shirt to the Portuguese people. He said the decision was not easy as it was made with both the mind and the heart.
During his tenure, Ronaldo helped Portugal win the Euro 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League crowns. He represented his country in six World Cups, including a recent campaign that ended in a 1-0 Round of 16 defeat to Spain.
The announcement follows a recent disagreement with national coach Jorge Jesus. Reports indicate Ronaldo left the team camp after the coach decided not to field him in a Nations League match, resulting in a 30-day suspension which the player accepted.
The Portuguese Football Federation expressed immense admiration for his service and said it intends to organise a special tribute to celebrate his career. Ronaldo is expected to continue playing at the club level with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
