After more than two decades representing Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo has announced the end of his international career, bringing to a close a journey defined by major achievements, difficult moments and an enduring attachment to his country.
The 41-year-old former captain, who made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003, used an emotional farewell message to reflect on what wearing the national team shirt meant to him and the people who supported him along the way.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner described representing Portugal as the greatest honour of his career, while acknowledging the contributions of his teammates, coaches, family members and supporters.
His message also offered a glimpse into how he views his legacy and what he hopes the next generation will achieve.
Here are five significant messages from his farewell.
1. A 23-year international journey comes to an end
Ronaldo confirmed that his time with the Portugal national team had reached its conclusion after 23 years, signalling his readiness to hand over the captain’s armband and national team shirt to younger players.
He acknowledged that the decision was difficult, explaining that it was guided by both reason and emotion after spending much of his life representing his country.
2. Wearing Portugal’s shirt remains his greatest honour
Despite the individual awards, records and achievements accumulated throughout his career, Ronaldo identified representing his country as the most meaningful accomplishment.
He said the privilege of playing for Portugal had ultimately meant more to him than his pursuit of personal recognition.
“I spent my life working to become the best player in the world. Today, I realize that my greatest victory was earning the honor of representing the best country in the world.”
3. He reflected on the setbacks and sacrifices
Ronaldo did not portray his international career as a journey without disappointment, acknowledging that there were defeats, difficult periods and occasions when he failed to deliver the results supporters expected.
However, he maintained that those experiences never weakened his pride in representing Portugal or made him abandon his commitment to the national team.
He also recognised the sacrifices made by his family, teammates and members of the support staff, whose contributions helped sustain his international career over more than two decades.
4. Young players should continue dreaming
Looking towards Portugal’s footballing future, Ronaldo encouraged younger players to believe in their abilities and pursue ambitions that could take the national team to greater heights.
He emphasised the need for emerging talents to remain determined and inspire others, arguing that the country’s football journey should continue through successive generations.
“Portugal will always need young people who dream, players who never give up, and new generations who believe it is possible to reach places no one has reached before,” he said.
5. His support for Portugal will continue
Although he is stepping away from international football as a player, Ronaldo made it clear that his relationship with Portugal would not end with his retirement.
He recalled the emotion of standing alongside his teammates and supporters during the national anthem, describing it as a moment when distinctions involving social class, occupation, opinions and football loyalties fade away.
The former captain pledged to remain emotionally invested in the national team, celebrating its successes and continuing to support the country.
“The number 7 shirt remains, but the pride of having worn it will be mine forever,” Ronaldo said.
