{
  "id": 12557536,
  "title": "Cristiano Ronaldo apologises for Portugal walkout, but not retiring",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/cristiano-ronaldo-apologises-for-portugal-walkout-but-not-retiring",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T05:33:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "SABC News",
    "slug": "sabc-news",
    "url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/cristiano-ronaldo-apologises-for-portugal-walkout-but-not-retiring/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he has no plans to retire from international football despite his recent walkout from Portugal's Nations League camp. The 41-year-old left the squad after being an unused substitute in Portugal's 2-1 win over Norway and discovering he would not start against Denmark. Ronaldo blamed his decision on a breakdown in trust with head coach Jorge Jesus, who allegedly agreed to rest him for the matches but changed his mind on the day of the Norway match. Ronaldo said he warmed up and watched the minutes tick away but was not called upon, feeling that the manager broke his word to him. This was not the first time Jesus had broken his word, leading Ronaldo to leave the camp. The Portuguese Football Federation has the authority to punish Ronaldo for his actions, with potential consequences including a suspension of one to six months and a financial penalty. Ronaldo emphasized that his international career is not over if he is physically well and can play for his club, with goals in mind. He also apologized to his teammates and supporters, admitting that leaving the camp was wrong, regardless of his frustrations with the coach. Ronaldo requested that the federation not reduce his punishment due to his status as captain. Despite the controversy, Ronaldo remains focused on competing for the national team, promising fans that there will be time for a farewell match when the time comes.",
  "summary": "Despite the dispute, Ronaldo made it clear that his international career is not over.",
  "key_points": [
    "Cristiano Ronaldo plans to continue international football despite walkout.",
    "Blames head coach Jorge Jesus for breakdown in trust and breaking promises.",
    "Portuguese Football Federation can punish Ronaldo with suspension and fine."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}