India, Nov. 5 -- Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old forward said he would hand over the national team's iconic number seven shirt to the next generation after the November international break.

Ronaldo announced his decision in an emotional video shared on social media on Thursday. Reflecting on his journey since making his senior debut in August 2003, he described representing Portugal as the greatest privilege of his career.

"Today the time has come to give it to the future," Ronaldo said, referring to the number seven shirt he has worn for 23 years.

He leaves international football as the men's game's all-time leading goalsco...