Guinness World Records has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following his announcement that he will retire from international football after representing Portugal for 23 years.
In a post on its official X account on Thursday, November 5, the organisation highlighted the forward’s record-breaking achievements, noting that he is leaving the international stage as the men’s all-time leading appearance-maker and goalscorer.
Ronaldo, 41, made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, setting records in both categories.
“Cristiano Ronaldo officially retires from international football. He retires with the most caps in international football (234) and the most goals in international football (146),” Guinness World Records stated.
Ronaldo announces end of Portugal career
The Al-Nassr forward announced his decision in a video shared on social media on Thursday, saying he was ready to hand over Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt to the next generation.
In his message to Portuguese supporters, Ronaldo reflected on the responsibility of representing his country for more than two decades.
He said the shirt had never belonged to him alone and described wearing it, defending it and representing Portugal around the world as a privilege.
Ronaldo added that passing it on was not an easy decision, explaining that it was one made with both his mind and his heart.
His international career began in August 2003. He later captained Portugal to its first major international trophy at the 2016 European Championship and helped the country win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Retirement follows disagreement with Portugal coach
Ronaldo’s announcement comes after uncertainty over his international future following a disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus during the September international break.
The forward was left out of the starting line-up for Portugal’s Nations League match against Norway and remained an unused substitute. He subsequently left the national team camp.
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Ronaldo later addressed the situation, accusing the coach of changing an agreement concerning his playing time. He also apologised to supporters and teammates and said he remained available for national team selection.
His final international appearance was Portugal’s 1-0 Nations League victory over Wales on September 24, 2026.
Ronaldo is set to bring his international career to a close after the November international break. He will, however, continue playing club football for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
He leaves Portugal as the country’s most-capped player and highest goalscorer, with 234 appearances and 146 goals.