Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement from International Football, Leaves Behind Record as Portugal Highest Goal Scorer. Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football. Ronaldo shared the news through an emotional video posted on social media.Ronaldo made. Cristiano Ronaldo retired from international football after playing for Portugal for 23 years. He made 234 appearances for the European giants and scored 146 goals. Here is a look his international.