Cristiano Ronaldo Hangs Up His Boots for Portugal: A Legendary International Career Concludes

At the age of 41, Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football. The legendary Portuguese forward, who has amassed a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for his country, made the poignant announcement on social media on Thursday. His illustrious international career with Portugal saw him clinch the 2016 Euros and two Nations League titles.

Ronaldo stated that he would be "handing back the No 7 shirt" following the upcoming international break. "The day has come back for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team," he shared. "I never felt it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world."

He continued, "Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made with the mind alone. They are also made with the heart."

Reflecting on his journey, which began in August 2003 and profoundly changed his life, Ronaldo added, "When I look back at everything with the national team, I don’t just see the matches, goals, records or trophies. 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."

More details to follow...