After more than two decades of defining international football, Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Portugal brings another chapter of the Messi, Neymar and Ronaldo era to a close.
Football is preparing to turn a significant page in its history following Ronaldo’s recent announcement that he is retiring from international football, bringing an extraordinary 23-year journey with Portugal to an end. His decision marks more than the departure of one of the sport’s greatest players; it represents another defining moment in the gradual conclusion of an era shaped by three extraordinary talents.
At 41, Ronaldo leaves Portugal with a remarkable record of 234 appearances and 146 goals, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped men’s international. His international journey began in August 2003 and reached its greatest heights when he captained Portugal to their maiden European Championship title in 2016, before adding UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.
His influence extended beyond the statistics. Ronaldo became the face of Portuguese football, carrying the hopes of a nation through multiple European Championships and World Cups. His determination, leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence helped transform Portugal into a consistent force on the international stage. He also made history as the first player to score at six different FIFA World Cups.
The announcement follows similar decisions from Messi and Neymar, making Ronaldo the final member of football’s celebrated trio to bring his international career to a close.
Messi, 39, ended his 21-year association with Argentina after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving behind a legacy that included 207 appearances, 125 goals and the ultimate achievement of leading his country to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. Having endured years of heartbreak and criticism before reaching the summit, Messi also guided Argentina to consecutive Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024. His departure marked the end of an extraordinary international journey in which he became a national hero and one of the most influential figures in Argentina sporting history.
For Neymar, the journey with Brazil also came to an emotional conclusion following the country’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The 34-year-old, who made his international debut in 2010, bowed out as Brazil’s record goalscorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances. Although a senior World Cup or Copa América title eluded him, Neymar helped Brazil win the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and famously scored the decisive penalty in the 2016 Olympic final to secure the country’s first men’s football gold medal. His creativity, flair and attacking brilliance made him one of Brazil’s most recognisable footballing figures.
Together, the three represented different dimensions of footballing greatness. Messi’s extraordinary vision and playmaking, Ronaldo’s athleticism and relentless goalscoring and Neymar’s creativity and unpredictability provided supporters with years of unforgettable moments. Their rivalry, particularly between Messi and Ronaldo during their time in Spain, became one of the defining sporting narratives of the modern era.
Importantly, their international retirements do not signal an immediate end to their playing careers. Ronaldo continues to represent Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Messi remains with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Neymar continues his career with Brazilian outfit Santos. Although the international chapter has closed, their influence on club football remains.
Their departures also present an opportunity for a new generation to step forward. Football will continue to produce exceptional talents, but replacing the influence and cultural significance of these three will be no easy task.
