Legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team. The 41-year-old captain addressed his fans in a special statement published on his personal Instagram account, summarizing more than two decades in the number 7 shirt. This was reported by Sport RBC.UA.

Official Farewell

In his statement, Ronaldo described the decision as "not easy," noting that such steps are "taken not only with the head, but also with the heart." "Today, the moment has come to pass the number 7 to the future... A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever comes to an end. The greatest victory is the honor of representing the best country in the world," the footballer declared. He also emphasized that the number 7 shirt never belonged only to him, and for 23 years, he had the "privilege and responsibility" to wear it and defend it on stadiums around the world.

23-Year Results: Records and Trophies

During his time with the national team, Ronaldo played 234 matches and scored 146 goals, setting a world record for the number of goals at the international level. The pinnacle of his career with Portugal was 2016, when he won the European Championship title with the team. In addition, the forward won the UEFA Nations League trophy twice — in 2019 and 2025. Thus, his journey with the national team covered the entire spectrum of achievements — from his debut in August 2003 to his last triumphs on the international stage.

The Scandal That Accelerated the Decision

The decision to end his international career was made against the backdrop of a high-profile incident during the previous Nations League window. According to sources, Ronaldo left the national team camp without permission after being left out of the starting lineup for the match against Norway. For this action, the footballer was punished with suspension from national team matches and a financial fine, which reportedly accelerated his final farewell to the team.

What's Next

With Ronaldo's departure, the Portuguese national team loses not only its record goalscorer but also a symbolic captain whose number 7 will now belong to "the future." For fans around the world, this event marks the end of an entire era in world football: 23 years, 234 matches, and 146 goals — numbers that will likely remain unsurpassed for many years to come. The federation has not yet officially announced who will take the leader's place or how the famous number will be distributed.