Cristiano Ronaldo and many stars have sent their gratitude to Pepe, after the Portuguese football legend announced his retirement.

Last night, August 8, Pepe officially announced his retirement , ending his great playing career at the age of 41. Pepe’s last match was at Euro 2024 when he played with the Portuguese team, in the quarter-finals and lost to France with a score of 3-5 on penalties.

Pepe and Ronaldo have played together for most of their club and national team careers. Photo: Getty

Cristiano Ronaldo later paid tribute to Pepe, saying: “No words can describe what you mean to me, my friend. We have won everything on the pitch, but the greatest achievement is the friendship and respect I have for you. You are unique, brother. Thank you very much.”

Ronaldo and Pepe have played together throughout their careers, winning trophies at Real Madrid and the Portuguese national team, including La Liga, the Champions League and Euro 2016.

Porto was the last club Pepe played for in his football career, this is also where he made his name before moving to Real Madrid and reaping success. On their personal page, Porto Club also sent their gratitude to Pepe by posting a picture with the words: “A career and a legacy that will always be an example for any player. There are only 2 words to say: Congratulations and thank you.”

Pepe’s peak career was at Real Madrid. Photo. Real Madrid

The Portuguese Football Federation paid tribute to Pepe by posting a video of his goals. Meanwhile, Real Madrid wrote a letter of gratitude to the former Portugal international, in which they shared: “Following the announcement of Pepe’s retirement from professional football, Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude, affection and admiration for one of the great legends of the club and of world football.

Pepe was part of Real Madrid from 2007 to 2017, a decade in which he won every trophy with our club. In 10 seasons defending our jersey, he won 14 trophies in 334 games: 3 European Cups, 2 Club World Cups, 2 European Super Cups, 3 League Cups, 2 Copas del Rey and 2 Spanish Super Cups.

Pepe is also one of the greatest players of the Portuguese national team, he won 1 Euro championship and 1 Nations League.

In addition, Pepe is part of the history of Porto, who have won the Intercontinental Cup, 4 La Liga, 5 Copas, 4 Portuguese Super Cups and 1 League Cup. Pepe is one of the best defenders in Real Madrid and European football, and he will always be recognized and loved by all Real Madrid fans. Real Madrid wishes him and his entire family good luck in this new phase of his life.