Frank Christian
Representing your country in football is a significant achievement for any player.
While some are content with just one cap, others establish themselves as mainstays for their nation, showcasing their talent on the global stage.
Earning numerous international appearances is no small feat, especially in a time where club football dominates the calendar.
However, certain players have amassed a considerable number of caps, solidifying their legacy in the sport.
Top Record Holder
Men’s Football
Leading the pack in men’s international football is Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, with an impressive 208 caps.
Ronaldo surpassed the previous record of 196 caps held by Bader Al-Mutawa, who is still eligible to play for Kuwait but last appeared in 2022.
Lionel Messi currently ranks seventh on the list with 183 appearances for the Argentina national team.
Top 10 Most Capped Players in Men’s International Football
Statistics updated as of June 20, 2024
| Rank | Player | Country | Caps |
| 1. | Cristiano Ronaldo* | Portugal | 208 |
| 2. | Bader Al-Mutawa | Kuwait | 196 |
| 3. | Soh Chin Ann | Malaysia | 195 |
| 4. | Ahmed Hassan | Egypt | 184 |
| 5. | Ahmed Mubarak | Oman | 183 |
| = | Hassan Al-Haydos | Qatar | 183 |
| 7. | Lionel Messi* | Argentina | 183 |
| 8. | Sergio Ramos | Spain | 180 |
| 9. | Andres Guardado | Mexico | 179 |
| 10. | Claudio Suarez | Mexico | 177 |
| = | Hossam Hassan | Egypt | 177 |
*Represents active players in international football
Women’s Football
Comparatively, male footballers fall short when it comes to international caps. Even Ronaldo’s 207 caps would not secure a spot in the top 10 of women’s football all-time list.
The record is held by Kristine Lilly, who earned an astounding 354 caps for the United States, making her the most capped player globally. The USWNT dominates the top 10 list, with seven players representing the USA.
Top 10 Most Capped Players in Women’s International Football
Statistics updated as of June 18, 2024
| Rank | Player | Country | Caps |
| 1. | Kristine Lilly | USA | 354 |
| 2. | Christine Sinclair | Canada | 331 |
| 3. | Carli Lloyd | USA | 316 |
| 4. | Christie Pearce | USA | 311 |
| 5. | Mia Hamm | USA | 276 |
| 6. | Julie Foudy | USA | 274 |
| 7. | Abby Wambach | USA | 255 |
| 8. | Joy Fawcett | USA | 241 |
| 9. | Caroline Seger | Sweden | 240 |
| 10. | Formiga | Brazil | 234 |
*Represents active players in international football
