Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from International Soccer After 23 Years

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international soccer at the age of 41. After an illustrious 23-year career with Portugal’s national team, he decided to step down. Ronaldo played 234 games for Portugal and shared his retirement news on Instagram, addressing his 679 million followers.

He stated, “It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made with the mind alone; they are also made with the heart. A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has come to an end.”

Ronaldo achieved unparalleled success on the soccer field. With 985 goals, he ranks as the all-time top goal scorer, ahead of Lionel Messi with 937 and Pelé with 762. Ronaldo has received the most nominations for the Ballon d’Or, totaling 18, and has won the award five times.

Ronaldo’s dedication to health and fitness has been central to his career success. He remarked in 2016, “If you have talent but don’t work hard, you won’t win anything. In my career, I’ve always worked hard in training and games. It’s hard work that achieves success.”

In contrast to trends in health and fitness, Ronaldo maintains a straightforward approach. His focus has been on consistent, healthy habits over decades. He follows a diet rich in lean meats, fish, and vegetables, avoiding alcohol and excess sugar, aligning with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.

Ronaldo shared that he doesn’t adhere to a strict diet. Instead, he follows routines that allow occasional treats, like a hamburger, with moderation. He emphasized, “It’s the key to everything.”

He also attributes much of his fitness success to sleep, ranking it as his “most important tool.” Ronaldo typically goes to bed between 11 p.m. and midnight and wakes up at 8:30 a.m.

Football coach Luis Castro, who worked with Ronaldo at Al Nassr, praised Ronaldo’s ingrained routines and respect for training. He highlighted Ronaldo’s focus on diet, sleep, and recovery as key factors in his longevity and performance.