Cristiano Ronaldo quits ahead of Wales match in bombshell announcement

Ronaldo retires from international football after 23 years and 146 goals for Portugal, stepping away 12 days before a Nations League match against Wales.

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, ending a 23-year career with the Portuguese national team. The 41-year-old made the announcement via an emotional social media video ahead of Portugal's UEFA Nations League clash with Wales on November 17 at Cardiff City Stadium.

Ronaldo departs as Portugal's greatest ever player, having scored 146 goals in 234 appearances. He made his international debut in August 2003 at age 18 against Kazakhstan and went on to appear at six World Cups and five European Championships. His greatest achievement came when he led Portugal to Euro 2016 victory, their first major tournament win.

The retirement comes after recent tensions with coach Jorge Jesus, including a fine of £215 last month when Ronaldo left the international camp after being benched against Norway and learning he would not start against Denmark. In his retirement video, Ronaldo reflected on the emotional weight of the decision and the connection he felt with Portuguese people worldwide during his international career.