Why Cristiano Ronaldo retired from Portugal: Reason finally revealed

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a 23-year career with Portugal that saw him set world records for caps and goals. The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, in an Instagram video, stating: 'The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team. I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it.' His retirement's decision is backed by a combination of factors. At 41, his on-field impact had waned. CNN notes his relationship with the national team 'slowly soured over the last few years, much in part due to his declining performances,' and that 'age clearly catching up with him' while he continued starting, frustrating fans. His 2026 World Cup performances drew media criticism, with observers questioning if he remained a force internationally. The breaking point came when new coach Jorge Jesus told him he wouldn't start the Nations League match against Denmark. Earlier, he was reportedly angry at being made to warm up but not brought on against Norway, the first time he was an unused substitute in a competitive game since 2008. Another incident occurred when Ronaldo left the Portugal camp at the end of September without permission and didn't return, citing 'broken promises' from Jesus, saying the coach had twice 'broke his word.' Jesus denied any agreement but left the door open for a return. After Ronaldo apologized and said he remained available for selection, the Portuguese Football Federation suspended him for 30 days and fined him around $287, as reported by Reuters . Ronaldo departs the international stage with 234 appearances and 146 goals for Portugal, both all-time world records. He captained his country to their first major trophy at Euro 2016 and helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. He said: 'It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart.'