Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international soccer, concluding his storied 23-year career with the Portuguese national team. The decision comes about a month after Lionel Messi retired from international play with Argentina.
Ronaldo, who made his debut for Portugal in August 2003 at the age of 18, will step away as the country's all-time leading scorer and appearance maker. He amassed 146 goals in 234 international matches.
In a five-minute video statement shared on social media, Ronaldo addressed the people of Portugal, reflecting on the pride and unity he felt representing his country. "There is an image I will carry with me forever. The moment our national anthem begins. I look around. I see my teammates. I see the stands. I see the children, the mothers, the fathers and the grandparents," he stated. "And for a few minutes, all our differences disappear. There are no clubs, there are no colours, there are no classes, there are no professions, there are no opinions. There is only one passion: Portugal."
The final matches of Ronaldo's international career were marked by controversy. After starting in a 1-0 win against Wales in the Nations League, he was left on the bench for the subsequent match against Norway. Portugal's manager indicated Ronaldo would not start against Denmark, leading the player to leave the training camp.
The Portuguese soccer federation plans to hold a tribute event to honor Ronaldo's contributions.
Ronaldo will continue his club career with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia for the remainder of the season.