RUI PATRICIO has officially retired at the age of 37, marking the end of a long and successful career as a goalkeeper. He made the announcement on Friday during a ceremony at the Portuguese Football Federation's headquarters. Patricio expressed pride in all he achieved and said it was the right time to move on, even though he had received offers to keep playing. He explained that he wanted to focus on new opportunities in his life, having started his professional career at just 18.
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Patricio is considered one of Portugal's greatest goalkeepers. He played a key role in helping the team win Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League. He is also Portugal's most-capped goalkeeper with 108 international appearances. At the ceremony, he donated the boots and gloves he wore in the Euro 2016 final to the FPF museum and was honored with the federation's medal of merit by president Pedro Proenca.
Patricio reflected on his career, especially the crucial save he made against Antoine Griezmann in the Euro 2016 final, which kept Portugal in the game before Eder scored the winning goal.
He said he retires feeling "proud," satisfied with all his achievements. He also mentioned that he now plans to enjoy family time, something he couldn't always do due to his busy schedule.
The farewell event was attended by family, former teammates, and coaches including Roberto Martinez, Fernando Santos, and Paulo Bento, who gave Patricio his professional debut.
Everyone praised his leadership, professionalism, and his impact on Portuguese football. Although Patricio has not been with a club since leaving Al Ain in June, FPF president Proenca said he will continue to contribute to Portuguese football in new roles within the federation.