Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football
The Portugal forward ends his 23-year career after setting world records for goals and appearances for his country.
Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, according to BBC News. The 41-year-old player has played 234 matches and scored 146 goals for his country since his debut in August 2003.
Ronaldo holds world records for both his total international goals and the number of caps earned. He recently left the Portugal camp last month after being informed he would not be in the starting lineup for a Nations League match against Denmark.
In an Instagram video, Ronaldo stated that it is time for him to return the national team's number seven shirt. He said he felt the privilege of wearing the shirt for 23 years and now wishes to pass it to the next generation.
The forward described the decision as difficult, noting that it was made with both his mind and his heart. He added that the journey which started in 2003 changed his life forever.
