Breaking News : Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football

Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 41.

In an emotional Instagram video posted on Thursday, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he would “hand back the number seven shirt” of the national team after the upcoming November international break.

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“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said. “I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it… Today the time has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision… A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has come to an end.”

Ronaldo ends his international career as the record holder for both appearances (234) and goals (146) in men’s football. He led Portugal to Euro 2016 glory and two UEFA Nations League titles.

The announcement follows recent tension with the national team setup, including his departure from camp last month after being told he would not start a Nations League match.

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One of the greatest players of all time has closed the chapter on a remarkable 23-year journey with Portugal.