Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international soccer after a record-breaking career with Portugal
CNN • • sports
Key Points:
- Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international soccer after a 23-year career with Portugal, during which he set records for most appearances (234) and goals (146) for his national team.
- Ronaldo's international highlights include winning the 2016 European Championship and the UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, marking Portugal's first major trophies.
- His relationship with the national team deteriorated in recent years due to declining performance and conflicts with the new coach, culminating in a training camp fallout last month, though he had apologized and seemed poised to continue.
- The Portuguese Football Federation plans to honor Ronaldo with a formal tribute during the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales.
- Ronaldo will continue his club career with Al-Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia, where he is nearing 1,000 career goals, currently standing at 985.
