Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo says he is retiring from international football, bringing an end to a record-breaking 23-year career with the national team.
The 41-year-old forward has scored 146 goals and won 234 caps for country – both world records – since making debut in 2003
Ronaldo took to social media to confirm the decision on Thursday with the caption “Portugal will always be in me”, bringing an end to all international career.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles. It comes after a falling out with with head coach Jorge Jesus in the last international break. Having made his international debut in 2003, Ronaldo played in 12 major tournaments six World Cups and six European Championships.
The Al Nassr forward said after the tournament would be his last, later adding he would not make any rash decisions.
He said: Today I finish my walk on the pitch with the national team. I leave with my head held high, with pride in the path I took, and with the awareness that I gave everything I had for Portugal.
“The goals pass, the cups are in museums, the records end and being beaten. But there is something that time can never erase, the place we occupy in people’s hearts.
“I spent my life working to be the best player in the world. Today I realise that the greatest victory was to have deserved to represent the best country in the world”.
Ronaldo thanked his team-mates, coaches, family and supporters around the world, adding: Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for having believed in me. Portugal will always be in me forever”.
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark on November 14 and Wales on November 17. These matches are expected to be Ronaldo’s final appearances for his country.
His international retirement does not mean he is ending his club career, as he continues to play for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
-9News Nigeria.
