Source: CNN

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a record-breaking career with Portugal.

The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, November 5, in an Instagram video in which he read a farewell letter to his supporters.

Ronaldo, who wore Portugal’s iconic number 7 shirt throughout much of his international career, said he was ready to hand over the jersey after 23 years of representing his country.

“The day has come for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” he said.

“I never thought it belonged to me alone. But for 23 years, I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it.”

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward made a record 234 appearances for Portugal, scoring 146 goals, making him the country’s all-time leading appearance maker and top scorer.

His international career also saw him establish himself as one of the most decorated players in the history of the game.