The announcement follows a period of tension within the national camp, specifically a recent disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus. The conflict arose last month when Ronaldo was excluded from the lineup for a Nations League fixture, a decision that led the veteran star to depart the team's training base. Despite the nature of his exit, Ronaldo’s statement focused on the pride and privilege of his long tenure, during which he earned 234 caps and established himself as the men's all-time leading international goalscorer with 146 goals.
A Legacy of Service and the Iconic No. 7
In a farewell message shared via social media, Ronaldo reflected on the responsibility of wearing the national team jersey. He expressed a desire to pass the iconic No. 7 shirt to the next generation of Portuguese talent, noting that he never viewed the number as his exclusive property. He described the act of representing Portugal as the greatest privilege of his professional life, emphasizing that he had carried the responsibility of the shirt to stadiums across the globe for more than two decades.
Addressing the highs and lows of his international tenure, Ronaldo acknowledged that while his career featured unforgettable triumphs, it was also marked by difficult defeats and moments of personal struggle. He maintained, however, that his commitment to the national cause remained steadfast throughout his 23 years of service. He extended his gratitude to the various coaches, medical staff, and support personnel who worked behind the scenes, as well as his family for their sacrifices during his long absences.
Closing the Chapter on a Historic Era
Ronaldo’s departure signals a significant transition for Portuguese football as the team looks to move forward without its most prominent figure. While he will no longer feature on the pitch, he insisted that his connection to the country remains as strong as ever. He concluded his farewell by stating that he leaves with his head held high, satisfied that he gave everything possible for the national team.
The forward’s final message to the fans was one of enduring loyalty, affirming that he would never stop being one of them. As he steps away from the international stage, his legacy as a central figure in Portuguese football history is cemented by his record-breaking statistics and his longevity at the highest level of the game.
