"Thank you, Captain"... Portugal immortalizes Ronaldo's legacy
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) honored the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo with a remarkable tribute, adorning the facade of its headquarters in Oeiras, near Lisbon, with the words "Obrigado, Capitão," meaning "Thank you, Captain," in recognition of his contributions throughout his international career. This initiative came four days after Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football, concluding an exceptional 23-year journey with the Portuguese national team, a career marked by numerous achievements and records that cemented his status as one of the most prominent figures in world football. The FPF had already sent a message of gratitude to its iconic captain following his announcement, affirming that his place within the Portuguese football family would remain secure and that it intended to organize a special celebration befitting his contributions to the national team, with the participation of the fans who supported him throughout his career. The message read: "Thank you for everything, Captain! This will always be your home," underscoring the enduring bond between Ronaldo and the national team, even after the conclusion of his international career. The Al-Nassr star left an indelible mark, having played 234 international matches for Portugal, scoring 146 goals. He also led his country to victory in the 2016 European Championship and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. Ronaldo's decision does not mean he is retiring from football, as it is limited to his international appearances, while he continues his professional career with Al-Nassr, amid anticipation of what he may offer in the next stage of his career.