Ronaldo retires from Portugal duty — SkimNews
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- Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football in an Instagram video, saying he was handing back Portugal’s No. 7 shirt after 23 years.
- Ronaldo, 41, concluded his Portugal career with 146 goals and 234 caps—both world records—after debuting in August 2003.
- Ronaldo walked out of Portugal’s camp in September after being told he would not start the Nations League match against Denmark.
- Portugal Football Federation vowed to organize a fitting tribute, saying it refused to let Ronaldo’s farewell take place without due tribute.
- Portugal was scheduled to announce its November Nations League squad on Friday, with fixtures against Denmark at home and Wales away.
- Lionel Messi retired from international football in October, as did his great rival Ronaldo.
Why it matters: Portugal’s Friday squad announcement comes after the loss of a 234-cap, 146-goal record holder, with November Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales scheduled next. The federation’s promised tribute provides a formal sendoff, while the September camp walkout—after Ronaldo was told he would not start against Denmark—adds context beyond the emotion of retirement.
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