Iconic footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from international football after making immense contributions to the Portugal national team.

The 41-year-old’s final appearance for his country was his 234th international match, a 1-0 victory over Wales in September.

His retirement comes after an incident in which he left Portugal’s training camp early after being named an unused substitute in the team’s subsequent match. The action reportedly earned him a €255 fine and a 30-day ban.

Although Ronaldo had earlier indicated that he would not retire in a lengthy statement addressing the incident and apologising to his teammates, he announced his immediate departure from international football on Thursday through his social media page.

In his farewell message, the forward reflected on his 23 years representing Portugal, “describing the national team’s number seven jersey as a privilege and responsibility he had carried with pride.”

He said, “ it was time to hand the iconic shirt over to the next generation, adding that his decision was difficult because of the emotional connection he had developed with the national team and thanked fans stating that Portugal will always be in my heart”.

Ronaldo made his international debut in August 2003 and leaves Portugal as the country’s highest-scoring player, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He also holds the record for the most international appearances in men’s football.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner enjoyed several major successes with Portugal, including winning the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles.

His retirement brings an end to one of the most successful international careers in football history, leaving behind records and achievements that have cemented his place among the sport’s greatest players.

Photo Credit: Christiano Ronaldo, Wikipedia