Ronaldo out: Portugal legend hangs up boots after benching row

RONALDO Cristiano, Portugal’s legendary captain and all-time leading international goalscorer, has dramatically announced his retirement from national team football following a fallout with coach Jorge Jesus.

The 41-year-old superstar confirmed his departure in a social media post on Thursday, bringing down the curtain on a glorious 23-year international career that yielded 234 caps and a record-breaking 146 goals for his country.

Ronaldo’s abrupt exit comes weeks after he walked out of Portugal’s training camp when Jesus benched him during a Nations League match against Wales on September 24 and subsequently informed the forward that he would not start the following fixture.

“It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart,” Ronaldo stated in his emotional farewell.

“If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you hug someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then it was all worth it. Portugal will always be a part of me.”

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) issued a statement expressing “deep gratitude and immense admiration” for the veteran skipper, hailing him as a transformative figure for the nation.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has raised Portugal’s profile and inspired generations of young people who dream of following in his footsteps; for many of us, he is the greatest player of all time,” the FPF said, adding that plans are underway to organise a nation-wide tribute match for the icon.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward led Portugal to their historic Euro 2016 triumph, as well as Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

Unlike his long-time rival Lionel Messi, who received a ceremonial send-off with Argentina last month, Ronaldo leaves the international stage amidst friction with team management.

Ronaldo will continue playing club football for Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Nassr until the end of the current season as he aims to reach the milestone of 1,000 career goals. He currently stands on 985 goals for club and country.

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