Did Portugal Top the Happiness Index After Cristiano Ronaldo Retired?
A report has debunked the claim circulating online that Portugal topped the World Happiness Index after Cristiano Ronaldo announced his international retirement. According to the latest happiness report, Finland leads the list for the ninth consecutive year, while Portugal ranks 69th.
A report has debunked the claim circulating online that Portugal topped the World Happiness Index after Cristiano Ronaldo announced his international retirement. According to the latest happiness report, Finland leads the list for the ninth consecutive year, while Portugal ranks 69th.
The claim spread as a joke through football meme accounts, including Troll Football on X. The post sparked discussion among fans: some felt that Ronaldo's absence could allow Portugal to focus on developing younger players, while others defended his legacy and contribution to the national team.
Ronaldo announced his international retirement in a video message posted on social media on 5 November 2026, saying he would hand over the number 7 shirt after the November international window. The report said his career with Portugal spanned 23 years, and that the decision brought reported disagreements between him and coach Jorge Jesus over playing time back into focus.