Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football.

The 41-year-old forward has scored 146 goals and won 234 caps for his country – both world records – since making his debut in 2003.

In an emotional farewell video, he thanked the people of Portugal for their support throughout the years.

“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo said in an Instagram video., external.

“I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world.

“Today the time has come to pass it on to the future. 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 and end.”