LISBON: Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his international career.
The 41-year-old made the announcement while speaking to reporters on Sunday ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash against Spain.
“I want to enjoy every moment of this journey,” Ronaldo said. “This will be my last World Cup. But I hope tomorrow will not be my last match.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said his legacy would not depend on whether he lifts the World Cup trophy.
“I have given football not 100 percent, but 1,000 percent for more than two decades,” he said. “One day I will retire from international football, but I will leave with a clear conscience because I gave everything I had.”
Ronaldo also dismissed criticism over his age. He said he continues to perform at the highest level because he still enjoys the game.
“I do not play football because I have to. I play because I love it,” he said. “You should enjoy every day. I have already scored three goals in this World Cup, so I believe I am still performing well.”
Ronaldo has also reached another milestone during the tournament. He became the first player in football history to score in six different FIFA World Cups after netting twice against Uzbekistan.
He had previously scored in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions.
He later scored a penalty against Croatia in the knockout stage. The goal marked the first knockout-stage goal of his World Cup career.
Ronaldo said the support of Portugal’s fans has made this the most memorable World Cup of his life.
He also thanked the media and said criticism over the years had made him a stronger person.
Ronaldo currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, which he joined in 2023.
