Cristiano Ronaldo retires from Portugal and says goodbye with an emotional message

Cristiano Ronaldo surprised the football world this Thursday, November 5 when announcing his retirement of the Portuguese National Teamending a 23-year career defending the colors of his country.

The 41-year-old forward shared an emotional letter on his social networks, in which he remembered some of the most important moments of his career and thanked those who accompanied him during this journey.

One of the most moving sections was dedicated to his wife, Georgina Rodríguez, whom he married in August 2026, as well as his mother and children. The footballer recognized that his loved ones were also part of that dream and had to face their absences and sacrifices due to sporting commitments.

“To my family, thank you for sharing this dream with me. Thank you for understanding the absences, the sacrifices and the moments in which the national team needed to occupy a space that also belonged to you. If I came this far, it was because we were always hand in hand,” he expressed.

The announcement marks the closing of a stage that began in August 2003, when he debuted with the Portuguese team. Since then, Ronaldo became one of the greatest references in the history of football in his country.

In his farewell, the attacker assured that it was not a simple decision, since it also involved his feelings. However, he stated that he leaves proud of what he has achieved and with the peace of mind of having given everything for Portugal.

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