Cristiano Ronaldo is Portuguese player
Several football figures, teammates and members of the football community have paid emotional tributes to Cristiano Ronaldo following his decision to retire from international football after an illustrious career with Portugal.
Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football ahead of the November international break, bringing an end to a remarkable chapter that saw him become Portugal's most-capped player and the leading goalscorer in men's international football.
The announcement has triggered an outpouring of appreciation, with players and football personalities reflecting on his influence and contribution to the game.
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus described the 41-year-old as a global icon and an inspiration to the next generation of footballers.
" Cristiano is a global icon, an example for Portugal and the national team," Jesus said.
He revealed that he had placed a huge photograph of Ronaldo in the national team's auditorium to inspire young players, adding that he had wanted the forward to continue playing alongside him.
"I asked him to continue with me because I needed him by my side. But I have to accept his decision," he added.
Jesus further stressed that Ronaldo would forever remain in the hearts of the Portuguese people and an icon of Portuguese football.
Manchester United teammate and Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes also paid tribute to his childhood idol, describing it as a privilege to have shared memorable moments with him in the national team.
"It was a privilege to be able to share great moments for our selection with my childhood idol," Fernandes wrote.
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Portugal defender Diogo Dalot also expressed his appreciation for Ronaldo, highlighting the inspiration and winning mentality he brought to the national team.
"You made us dream, you made us believe, and you made us WIN! Thank you, idol," Dalot wrote.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also joined the tributes, describing Ronaldo's international career as one that will forever remain part of football history.
Infantino highlighted the forward's extraordinary achievements, including becoming the first player to score at six different editions of the FIFA World Cup and the all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football.
He, however, noted that Ronaldo's greatest legacy goes beyond records, trophies and goals, pointing to his ability to inspire generations, unite millions of fans and carry Portugal's hopes on the global stage.
"Thank you, Cristiano, for the passion, the unforgettable moments and the immense contribution you have made to our beautiful game proudly wearing the 'Seleção' shirt," Infantino wrote.
The Portugal national team also shared an emotional farewell message, describing Ronaldo's contribution as a legacy that would live on forever.
"A legacy that will live on forever. Thank you for everything, Captain," the team posted.
Ronaldo leaves international football with 234 appearances and 146 goals for Portugal, having represented his country at multiple major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.
His retirement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football, with tributes continuing to pour in from across the football world.
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