Ronaldo ends Portugal career after 23 years

If you’re planning a quiet evening in front of the TV for Portugal’s next international match, that match will look different from now on. The number 7 shirt that’s been on the pitch for 23 years won’t be worn by the same man again.

Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Thursday that he is retiring from the Portugal national team. For many football fans in Kuwait, where talk of a Ronaldo visit to Kuwait has circulated before, this is the end of an era they’ve followed closely for two decades.

What did Ronaldo actually say?

In the video, Ronaldo read from a piece of paper while clips played of his time on the field, fans celebrating his goals, and his children. He said he never felt the number 7 shirt belonged to him alone.

“I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years, I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world. Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future,” he said.

He described his international career, which began in August 2003, as something that “changed my life forever” and has now come to an end. He added that the decision was not an easy one. “It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” he said.

Ronaldo also thanked fans directly. “If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it,” he said. He captioned the video, “Portugal will always be a part of me.”

Why now? The背景 behind the timing

Ronaldo’s exit comes after tension with Portugal’s national coach, Jorge Jesus. In October, Jesus left Ronaldo out of a Nations League match. Ronaldo then left the team camp, and the Portuguese Football Federation suspended him for 30 days over the dispute.

At the time, some reports suggested Ronaldo might return to the national side once the suspension ended. Thursday’s announcement confirms he will not. He will step away after the upcoming November international break.

How big a career is this, really?

Ronaldo holds the record for the most international appearances and the most international goals by any player, male or female, in football history. He captained Portugal to their first major trophy at Euro 2016, and later helped the team win the Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.

He has also won the Ballon d’Or, the award for the world’s best player, five times during his club and international career.

What this means if you follow football in Kuwait

Portugal matches are widely watched in Kuwait, and Ronaldo has long been one of the most followed athletes here, on social media and on television. His retirement from international duty does not affect his club career, but it does mean no more Portugal shirts with his name and number on the back after this break.

You can follow more of our international news coverage for updates on what comes next for Portugal’s squad and who may take over the number 7 shirt.

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