New Delhi, November 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following the Portuguese forward’s announcement of his retirement from international football, describing his achievements as milestones that “may never be matched”.
Ronaldo, 41, announced his decision in an emotional video shared on social media, bringing the curtain down on a 23-year career with Portugal. He finished as the leading scorer in men’s international football, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.
In a post on Instagram, Infantino praised Ronaldo’s talent, determination and influence on the global game, saying few players had touched the hearts of football fans around the world in the same way.
The FIFA chief highlighted Ronaldo’s record of scoring in six different editions of the FIFA World Cup, making him the first player to achieve the feat. He said the forward’s legacy extended well beyond records, trophies and goals.
Infantino also credited Ronaldo with inspiring generations of players, uniting millions of supporters and carrying Portugal’s hopes on football’s biggest stages.
“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. Your international career will forever be part of football’s history,” Infantino wrote.
Ronaldo made his senior debut for Portugal in August 2003 and went on to become the country’s most-capped player and record goalscorer. He captained the national side to its maiden UEFA European Championship title in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League triumph in 2019.
During his international career, he represented Portugal at five World Cups and six European Championships, becoming one of the defining figures in the country’s football history.
In his retirement message, Ronaldo said he was proud of his journey with Portugal and described representing his country as the greatest victory of his career.
“Today I realise that the greatest victory was to have deserved to represent the best country in the world,” he said.
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