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Ronaldo Announces Retirement from Portugal National Team

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he will retire from international duty with Portugal after 23 years. The former Ballon d’Or winner shared an emotional video message to the Portuguese people on Thursday. He said his journey with the national team, which began in August 2003, has reached its end. Ronaldo’s record includes 146 goals in 234 matches, six World Cup appearances and a Euro 2016 title. The 40‑year‑old will keep playing club football for Saudi club Al‑Nassr until the season’s close. His last cap came on 24 September when Portugal beat Wales 1‑0 in the Nations League. After coach Jorge Jesus left him on the bench, Ronaldo chose to leave the national camp and end his international career. The Portuguese Football Federation thanked him for his contributions, while Ronaldo pledged to support the team and celebrate future victories. In his speech he declared, “There is only one passion: Portugal,” and promised to keep cheering for the national side. He also noted he is chasing the 1,000‑goal milestone, currently standing at 985.

· Times of India

The essential points

  1. 01Ronaldo retires from Portugal after 23‑year international career, 146 goals in 234 matches
  2. 02He will continue club play for Al‑Nassr in Saudi Arabia until season end
  3. 03Last national appearance was a 1‑0 Nations League win over Wales on 24 Sep
  4. 04Farewell message includes quote “There is only one passion: Portugal” and pledge to support future victories
The full brief

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he will retire from international duty with Portugal after 23 years. The former Ballon d’Or winner shared an emotional video message to the Portuguese people on Thursday. He said his journey with the national team, which began in August 2003, has reached its end. Ronaldo’s record includes 146 goals in 234 matches, six World Cup appearances and a Euro 2016 title.

The 40‑year‑old will keep playing club football for Saudi club Al‑Nassr until the season’s close. His last cap came on 24 September when Portugal beat Wales 1‑0 in the Nations League. After coach Jorge Jesus left him on the bench, Ronaldo chose to leave the national camp and end his international career. The Portuguese Football Federation thanked him for his contributions, while Ronaldo pledged to support the team and celebrate future victories.

In his speech he declared, “There is only one passion: Portugal,” and promised to keep cheering for the national side. He also noted he is chasing the 1,000‑goal milestone, currently standing at 985.