By Karim Hammam
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football after 23 years with Portugal, ending a career that yielded 146 goals in 234 appearances. The 41-year-old's departure follows a fallout with coach Jorge Jesus, who sanctioned him with a 30-day suspension (already served) and a €255 fine for leaving the training camp without permission. Jesus had kept Ronaldo on the bench for one match and indicated he would not start the next, prompting the striker to go home. His final appearance came on 24 September against Wales.
Fallout with Jorge Jesus
The Portuguese federation confirmed the disciplinary action, which stemmed from Ronaldo's unauthorized exit from the camp. Jesus stated the door remained open for selection, but Ronaldo chose to end his international career rather than accept a reduced role. A message circulated in Portugal thanking him as a global ambassador and inspiration to millions, though the abrupt ending left a bitter taste.
Career highlights and legacy
Ronaldo debuted in 2003 when Portugal was still seeking its first major title. He experienced early heartbreak in the Euro 2004 final loss to Greece on home soil, a moment that fueled his relentless drive. Under Luiz Felipe Scolari, he matured from a talented but immature teenager into a leader, later calling Scolari "father" after the coach supported him through his father's death in 2005.
Euro 2016 triumph and later success
With Fernando Santos, Ronaldo embraced a centre-forward role and captained Portugal to their first European Championship in 2016, despite leaving the final injured. He added a Nations League title in 2019 and, according to the source, a second in 2025 at an age when most players have retired. No player has scored more goals for a national team or earned more caps for Portugal.
Statistics under recent coaches
Under Roberto Martinez, Ronaldo scored 28 goals in 37 games, averaging 0.756 per match, improving on his 0.624 rate under Santos. The federation has announced a special tribute to honour his contribution, acknowledging that his exit denied fans a celebratory farewell.
