Cristiano Ronaldo shares a heartfelt five-minute video to announce his decision to retire
Cristiano Ronaldo has shared an emotional message announcing his retirement from international football.
After Portugal’s coach Jorge Jesus decided to bench Ronaldo during the 2-1 Nations League win over Norway, Ronaldo left the national team camp, leaving many wondering if he’d play for Portugal again.
Although a long, detailed statement earlier made some think he might return, Ronaldo has now confirmed that his time with the national team has come to an end.
In a video posted on social media, Ronaldo said: “Today, I finish my journey with the national team. I’m proud of the path I’ve taken and I know I gave my all for Portugal.”
He added, “Goals may fade, trophies are kept in museums, and records get broken. But there’s one thing time can never erase—the place you hold in people’s hearts.”
“I spent my life trying to be the best. Today, I realize the biggest win was having the honor to represent the best country in the world.”
“Thank you for 23 unforgettable years. Thank you for believing in me. Portugal will always be a part of me. Forever.”
This comes just before Portugal announces their Nations League squad for the next international break. Ronaldo was included in an early squad list in late October.
He continued, “The day has come for me to give up the number 7 shirt. It was never mine alone, but for 23 years I wore it with pride and responsibility in stadiums all over the world.”
“Now, it’s time to pass it to the future. This wasn’t an easy choice because some decisions come from the heart, not just the mind.”
“Starting in August 2003, this journey changed my life. When I look back, I don’t just see games, goals, or trophies—I see people.”
“I think of Portuguese fans everywhere, even those I’ve never met, who felt a little closer to home during the matches. Football is bigger than the game itself; it’s about people.”
“Throughout my career with the national team, I always pushed myself to do more. I wanted to win, to make history, to be better. I gave everything for this shirt.”
“There were amazing victories and tough losses. I made mistakes and I suffered. Sometimes I couldn’t give the fans what they hoped for. But I never gave up or stopped feeling proud to play for Portugal.”
“I’ve learned that goals fade, trophies sit in museums, and records get broken. But the place you hold in people’s hearts lasts forever. If even one of my goals made you smile, hug someone, forget your worries, or feel proud, then it was all worth it.”
“Being Portuguese means we suffer, rise, and believe together.”
“Portugal will always need young players who dream big, keep fighting, and believe they can go beyond what’s been done before. A country that keeps creating new heroes never stops believing in itself.”
More updates to come…