Football figures, former clubs, team-mates and supporters have joined Portugal in celebrating Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career after the country’s all-time leading scorer in men’s international football announced his retirement from the national team on Thursday.
The announcement brought tributes from across the game, with messages highlighting not only the goals, records and trophies but also the influence Ronaldo has had on Portuguese football and the generations who grew up watching him.
The Portuguese Football Federation praised the forward’s commitment to the national shirt, describing his dedication as something that extended beyond the pitch.
“Every drop of sweat, every decisive goal, and every captain’s arm-band he wore with honour on the field reflected his unconditional love for our jersey. His dedication and his legacy transcend the four lines of the field,” the federation said.
It also credited Ronaldo with raising Portugal’s profile and inspiring young people to follow in his footsteps, calling him “the greatest player of all time” in the eyes of many.
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus said the decision was Ronaldo’s to make, although he had personally wanted the forward to continue.
“This is all his decision. We already had the opportunity to talk about this before the first call-up. I asked him to stay, to stay with me because I needed him to be by my side, but I have to accept his decision,” Jesus told Canal 11.
The coach, who had worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, described him as “a world reference” and “a symbol for Portuguese youth”. He added that the forward would always be a reference for the national team, the Portuguese people and the country’s history.
Ronaldo’s current club, Al-Nassr, celebrated his contribution to the national side while making clear that their relationship with him would continue.
“It’s not just a chapter — it’s history you’ve shaped. You’re an icon to the entire world, not just Portugal. Portugal is in your heart, and you are in the hearts of the world,” the club said.
Al-Nassr added: “A page has turned, but there is still history left for us to write together at your home, Al-Nassr.”
His former club Manchester United also congratulated him on “an incredible international career”.
The tributes were particularly personal from his Portugal team-mates. Bruno Fernandes thanked the forward for the inspiration he had provided throughout his career.
“Thank you for the inspiration. It was a privilege to be able to share great moments with our national team alongside my childhood idol,” the midfielder said.
Full-back Diogo Dalot reflected on the example Ronaldo had set for the country. He described Portugal as a nation shaped by ambition, sacrifice and the courage to achieve what once appeared impossible, before crediting Ronaldo with making generations believe in those possibilities.
“A legacy that will be remembered not only for the trophies or the goals, but also for the path you paved for all those who came after you,” Dalot said.
Former Portugal and Real Madrid defender Pepe offered a shorter but deeply personal message: “It was more than just soccer. Thanks for everything, Cris.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino also recognised the scale of Ronaldo’s contribution to the game.
“Few players have ever touched the heart of football fans around the world quite like Cristiano. A career defined by extraordinary talent, relentless determination and an unwavering desire to push the boundaries of what is possible,” Infantino said.
He added that Ronaldo had achieved milestones that might never be matched, but insisted his greatest legacy went beyond records, trophies and goals.
“Your international career will forever be part of football’s history,” the FIFA president said.
