What to know
- Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international soccer after 23 years representing Portugal.
- The soccer star thanked his teammates, coaches, family and supporters in an emotional social media announcement.
- Fans worldwide are sharing tributes and recalling some of his most memorable moments.
- Ronaldo previously played in Toronto during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawing thousands of excited fans.
- Although he is retiring from international soccer, Ronaldo continues to play for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr FC.
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has announced he is retiring from international soccer, and fans are reacting worldwide by sending him flowers.
Ronaldo announced on a social media post on Thursday morning that he is retiring from the famous No. 7 Portuguese shirt, which he iconically wore for 23 years.
“It wasn’t an easy decision because some decisions are not made with the mind alone, they are also made with the heart. A journey that began in August 2023, and changed my life forever, has come to an end,” he said in a video posted on Instagram.
In the heartfelt message containing a series of images from his decades-long career, Ronaldo reflected on his journey with the national team, saying he’ll mostly remember the millions of fans that supported him.
The player is known as one of the biggest soccer icons in the world, receiving overwhelming support from not only fans from Portugal but all over the world. Currently, he is also the most followed individual person on Instagram, with over 679 million followers.
According to the World Guinness Records, he retires with the most appearances for his international team at 234 caps and the most goals in international soccer at 146 scores.
“Over the years, I learned a few very simple things: goals fade, trophies end up in museums, records are eventually broken, but there is something that time can never erase: the place we hold in people’s hearts,” Ronaldo said.
“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you embrace someone, forget a worry, or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it.”
The soccer star also thanked his teammates, coaches, and Portugal team’s staff for their support over the years, and his family for supporting his dreams, and especially the Portuguese fans.
“Today, my journey on the pitch with the national team comes to an end. I leave with my head held high. Proud of the path I have taken, and knowing that I gave everything I had for Portugal. But I will never stop being one of you,” he said. “Today I realize that my greatest victory was earning the honour of representing the best country in the world. Thank you for the 23 years. Thank you for believing in me.”
Ronaldo’s last appearance for the Portuguese team was on Sept. 24 during a Nations League game in Lisbon against Wales.
Fans react to announcement
With over 18 million likes and almost two million comments by the time of publication, Ronaldo’s Instagram announcement quickly went viral, with millions of fans recalling the player’s best moments and wishing him a happy retirement.
“Grew up watching you, fell in love with football because of you, and started playing because you inspired me to step onto the field. You taught me that dedication beats talent, and you’ll always be my icon,” one fan commented on Instagram.
“You will remain the best player in the world and the best to ever touch a ball, my love Cristiano,” another one wrote.
“Siuuuuuuu forever,” a different fan said.
“No words can describe what you have given to football and to us. You made millions of us believe in dreams. We grew up watching you, celebrating with you, and believing in you. No matter what comes next, you will always be our No. 7. Thank you Cristiano,” another said.
Ronaldo played in Toronto during the World Cup
Ronaldo also made a historic appearance at the Toronto Stadium this summer for the 2026 World Cup, leaving fans hyped to see the famous star in the city.
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The player was in town on July 2 for a game against Wales in the Round of 32, which Portugal won by 1–0. His appearance marked history for Toronto during the World Cup, bringing thousands of excited fans to the city.
Prior to that, Ronaldo had been to Toronto in 2009, when he played for Real Madrid in a friendly match against Toronto FC at the BMO Field.
Ronaldo has retired from the national team, but he’ll continue to play for Saudi Pro League’s Al-Nassr FC.
