World football Icon, Cristiano Ronaldo has delivered an emotional farewell to Portugal after bringing an end to his remarkable 23-year international career, describing representing his country as the greatest achievement of his football journey.

The 41-year-old superstar announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, November 5, 2026, bringing an emotional end to a chapter that began with his senior debut in August 2003.

Ronaldo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, having made 234 appearances and scored a record 146 goals for Portugal, making him the most-capped and highest-scoring men’s international footballer in history.

Following the announcement, Ronaldo shared a heartfelt letter to the Portuguese nation, reflecting on his journey from a young boy growing up in Madeira to becoming one of the most celebrated footballers in history.

In his emotional message, Ronaldo revealed that while he spent much of his career striving to become the best player in the world, representing Portugal ultimately became his greatest victory.

“I spent my life working to become the best player in the world.

“Today, I realise that my greatest victory was earning the honour of representing the best country in the world.

“Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for believing in me.

“Thank you for allowing me to live a dream that began when I was just a little boy in Madeira, running after a ball.

“The number 7 shirt remains, but the pride of having worn it will be mine forever. Portugal will always be a part of me. Forever,” Ronaldo wrote.

His message has since sparked emotional reactions from supporters and football personalities, with teammate Bruno Fernandes among those paying tribute to the legendary forward.

Fernandes, who shared the Portuguese national team dressing room with Ronaldo, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside his childhood idol, acknowledging the inspiration he provided throughout his career.

“Thank you for the inspiration. It was a privilege to be able to share great moments for our selection with my childhood idol,” Fernandes wrote on Instagram.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has also pledged to organise a special farewell ceremony to celebrate Ronaldo’s extraordinary contribution to the national team.

In its statement, the federation said it was determined to ensure that a player of Ronaldo’s stature receives the recognition his career deserves.

“The Portuguese Football Federation refuses to let these big farewells take place without the tribute they really deserve,” the federation said.

It added that supporters and the entire country would have an opportunity to applaud and celebrate a footballer who had given so much to Portugal.

Ronaldo’s international journey included captaining Portugal to their historic UEFA Euro 2016 triumph and lifting the UEFA Nations League trophy in 2019 and 2025.

His record-breaking achievements, leadership and longevity have established him as one of the most influential figures in international football.

Although his time wearing Portugal’s number seven shirt has come to an end, his legacy will remain deeply embedded in the country’s football history.

He also represented Portugal at six FIFA World Cup tournaments, further cementing his place among the most influential figures in the history of international football.

Although his international journey has come to an end, Ronaldo is expected to continue his professional career at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he remains focused on reaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.

For Portugal, however, the departure of their iconic number seven marks the end of an era, with the country preparing to honour a footballer whose achievements have shaped an entire generation.