Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement: A look at his 146 International goals historic records and major trophies with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old confirmed his decision through an emotional video message on Thursday, November 5, 2026, marking the end of an era for Portuguese football.

Ronaldo made his international debut in August 2003 and went on to become one of the most successful players in the history of the national team. He leaves Portugal as the highest goalscorer in men's international football, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.

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The five-time Ballon d'OR winner also captained Portugal to three major international titles, including the country's historic UEFA European Championship triumph in 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

Cristiano Ronaldo's International career: Goals and appearances

Ronaldo finishes his Portugal career with two major international records to his name. He made 234 appearances for the national team, the highest tally in men's international football, and scored 146 goals to remain the all-time leading goalscorer at international level.

His international journey began in August 2003, and he went on to represent Portugal across six FIFA World Cup editions. He also became the first player to score in six different World Cups, having found the net at the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 tournaments.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo scored three goals, taking his overall tally in the competition to 11.

Cristiano Ronaldo's three major International trophies with Portugal

Ronaldo played a crucial role in changing Portugal's standing in international football. Before his era, the country had never won a major senior international tournament. He helped Portugal lift three major trophies during his time with the national team.

1. UEFA Euro 2016

Portugal won their first-ever European Championship in France in 2016. Ronaldo scored three goals and provided two assists during the tournament. Although an injury forced him off early in the final against France, he continued to encourage his teammates from the touchline as Portugal secured a historic 1-0 victory after extra time.

2. UEFA Nations League 2019

Ronaldo captained Portugal to the inaugural UEFA Nations League title in 2019. He scored a hat-trick against Switzerland in the semi-final before Portugal defeated the Netherlands 1-0 in the final.

3. UEFA Nations League 2025

Portugal added another Nations League trophy to their collection in 2025. They defeated Spain in the final, which ended 2-2 before Portugal won the penalty shootout. It was Ronaldo's third major international title with his country.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Major International records

Apart from his goals and trophies, Ronaldo leaves behind several remarkable records in international football.

- Most international appearances in men's football: 234
- Most international goals in men's football: 146
- First men's player to reach 200 international appearances
- First player to score in six different FIFA World Cup editions
- Most goals in UEFA European Championship history: 14
- Most goals in UEFA Euro qualifying: 41
- Most appearances in UEFA European Championship finals: 30
- Most World Cup appearances for Portugal: 27
- Most World Cup goals for Portugal: 11

What next for CR7?

Ronaldo's retirement announcement brings his international career to a close, but he is not retiring from professional football altogether. The forward will continue playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.

He also has a significant individual milestone in sight. Ronaldo has scored 985 career goals and is closing in on the historic 1,000-goal mark.