Cristiano Ronaldo has officially retired from international football, bringing a definitive end to his 23-year tenure with the Portugal national team. The 41-year-old made the announcement following a contentious period with head coach Jorge Jesus, which resulted in a disciplinary sanction. Although the 30-day ban and €255 fine for leaving the training camp without permission have been served, the friction remains a defining note of his departure, contrasting sharply with the adored exit of his rival Lionel Messi from Argentina just weeks prior.
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The Portugal legend’s final appearance came on 24 September against Wales, where he secured his place in history with a record-breaking tally of 146 goals in 234 caps. This statistic cements his status as the all-time leading scorer in international football. While the numbers are undeniably historic, the manner of his exit—triggered by being benched for one match and told he would not start the next—has left a lingering sense of disappointment among fans who expected a more harmonious conclusion to his global ambassadorship.
Despite the awkward finale, the Portuguese public has largely rallied around the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, with widespread messages thanking him for his inspiration and service to the nation. The retirement marks the close of an era in world football, as Ronaldo transitions from active duty to legacy status. For fans searching for confirmation, the answer is clear: the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has hung up his boots for international competition, leaving behind a record that may never be broken.
Source: BBC
