Portugal: Neymar reacts as Cristiano Ronaldo retires from international football

Brazilian football superstar Neymar Jr. has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese forward announced his decision to retire from international football on Thursday, November 5.

Neymar reacted to Ronaldo’s announcement with a brief but meaningful message on Instagram, describing the 41-year-old as a “Lenda”, which translates to “Legend” in Portuguese. He also accompanied the comment with clapping emojis.

Ronaldo confirmed his decision in a lengthy video shared on his Instagram account, revealing that he would officially bring his 23-year international career with Portugal to an end after the November international break.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward also disclosed that he would give up Portugal’s famous number seven jersey, which he has worn throughout his remarkable journey with the national team.

In his farewell message to the Portuguese people, Ronaldo reflected on the honour and responsibility of representing his country for more than two decades.

“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team. I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world,” he said.

He admitted that reaching the decision was emotionally challenging, explaining that it was not something he could settle through reasoning alone.

“It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made with the mind alone. They are also made with the heart,” Ronaldo added.

Ronaldo brings his international career to a close with an extraordinary record of 234 appearances and 146 goals for Portugal, making him the most-capped player and highest-scoring goalscorer in men’s international football.

His achievements also include leading Portugal to their maiden major international trophy at Euro 2016, alongside victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

Neymar’s tribute carries added significance given the history between the two football icons.

The Brazilian and Ronaldo spent four seasons as rivals in Spain, with Neymar representing Barcelona while the Portuguese star played for their fierce rivals, Real Madrid.

Neymar also announced his retirement from international football in July following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16.

Meanwhile, several other football personalities and organisations have joined in celebrating Ronaldo’s remarkable contribution to the game. The Premier League’s official Instagram account and his former Portugal teammate Pepe were among those who sent messages following his announcement.