Ronaldo ends his Portugal career after 23 years

The story

Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from international football, closing a Portugal career that lasted 23 years.

BBC Sport reports that the 41-year-old finishes with 146 goals from 234 appearances. His last international appearance was against Wales on September 24.

An era closes for Portugal

The retirement follows a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus after Ronaldo left a training camp without permission. The broadcaster reports that a disciplinary sanction had already been served. Jesus had said the door remained open, leaving the decision with the player.

The announcement settles Ronaldo’s international future while leaving his club career separate. Portugal now move forward without a player who had been central to the national side for more than two decades.