KATHMANDU: Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football. The 41-year-old said in a message posted on Instagram that he would hand over Portugal’s No. 7 shirt to the next generation.
Ronaldo, who made his international debut for Portugal in August 2003, has decided to bring his 23-year international career to an end.
He played 234 matches for Portugal and scored a record 146 goals. He holds the world records for the most international appearances and the most goals in men’s international football.
In his message, Ronaldo said wearing Portugal’s No. 7 shirt had been a special responsibility and privilege. He said he had been fortunate to wear and defend the shirt for 23 years while representing his country in stadiums around the world.
He acknowledged that the decision had not been easy but said the time had come to pass the No. 7 shirt on to the next generation.
Last month, Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp after being informed that he would not be included in the starting XI for a Nations League match against Denmark.
Ronaldo played a key role in helping Portugal win their first European Championship title in 2016. His retirement announcement marks the end of a significant chapter in Portuguese football.
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