After 23 Years, Cristiano Ronaldo Retires: Portugal Forward Says He’s Quitting International Football
A Portugal career ends
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that he will no longer play international football for Portugal. He said the journey that began in August 2003 had changed his life and had now reached its end.
Ronaldo said he had spent 23 years wearing, defending and carrying Portugal’s shirt into stadiums around the world. He described that role as both a privilege and a responsibility.
Recent camp departure
Last month, Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp after being told he would not start against Denmark in the Nations League. The report gives no further detail about what happened after he left. His retirement announcement follows that episode, but does not state that it was the reason for his decision.
His words on representing Portugal
Ronaldo said the national shirt had never belonged to him alone. He reflected on the long period in which he had the chance to represent Portugal. He said his international journey began in August 2003 and had changed his life. He announced that it was over.
Key points
- Ronaldo says he is retiring from international football with Portugal.
- His national-team career began in August 2003 and lasted 23 years.
- He left Portugal’s camp last month after learning he would not start against Denmark.
- Ronaldo described representing Portugal as a privilege and responsibility.