Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal’s polarising icon and his bitter final act
Summary
Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from Portugal’s national team at age 41, ending a career that began in 2003. He leaves as the team’s record holder for international appearances and goals, but his final years brought reduced influence, public tensions with coach Jorge Jesus and an unfulfilled goal of winning the World Cup.Key Facts
- Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003.
- He finished with a record 234 international appearances and 146 goals, according to the article.
- He helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
- Portugal exited the 2022 World Cup in the quarterfinals and Euro 2024 without winning either tournament.
- At the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo scored three times, including his first World Cup knockout-stage goal.
- Portugal lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup last 16.
- Ronaldo announced his international retirement in a video shared on Thursday.
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