(CNN) — Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international soccer after a record-breaking career with Portugal.
The 41-year-old broke the news on Thursday in a long Instagram video where he read a letter to his supporters.
“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” he said, referring to his iconic shirt number.
“I never thought it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years, I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it.”
Ronaldo played a record 234 times for his country, scoring a record 146 international goals. No man has scored more or made more appearances for his nation.
The highlight of his international career came in 2016 when he lifted the European Championship trophy for his country. He also helped Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Despite all his success, though, his relationship with the national team has slowly soured over the last few years – much in part due to his declining performances on the field.
Despite age clearly catching up with him, Ronaldo continued starting despite his impact waning and fans began to grow frustrated.
After this summer’s World Cup in North America, the striker then clashed with new head coach Jorge Jesus and stormed out of a national team training camp last month.
Ronaldo had apologized, though, and it appeared that he’d continue his career for the national team.
His announcement comes shortly after rival Lionel Messi also retired from playing international soccer with Argentina.
Despite the unceremonious ending, no one can doubt the impact Ronaldo has had on Portuguese soccer.
For many, he is the greatest player the country has ever produced and he powered the team to its first-ever major silverware.
“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head.
“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.”
Ronaldo’s announcement comes ahead of the international break later this month, when the Seleção is set to play Denmark and Wales in the UEFA Nations League.
The superstar is not retiring completely, though. He still plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr FC where he is closing in on scoring 1,000 career goals – he’s currently on 985.
This story has been updated with additional information.
The-CNN-Wire
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