Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed on Tuesday that the next World Cup, scheduled for 2026, will likely be his final appearance at the global tournament. At that time, the Portuguese athlete will be 41 years old.
Ronaldo made the announcement during a tourism conference in Saudi Arabia, speaking via videolink from Portugal’s training camp.
Approaching the End of a Storied Career
When asked about his potential retirement from soccer, Ronaldo offered a timeline. He clarified that when he suggests retiring “soon,” he means “probably one, two years.”
“Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old,” Ronaldo stated regarding the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Portuguese national team is currently close to securing qualification for the 2026 tournament. The squad needs only two points from its remaining qualifying matches. Portugal faces Ireland on Thursday, then hosts Armenia on Sunday.
Ronaldo has been instrumental in the qualifying campaign. His five goals in four games have extended his men’s world record to 143 goals for a national team.
“I feel very good in this moment. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp, I’m enjoying my game in the national team,” he commented on his current form.
A Shared Milestone
Ronaldo confirmed his thoughts on the end of his playing days: “Let’s be honest, when I mean soon I mean probably one, two years. I’m enjoying the moment. But when I mean soon, it’s really soon, because I give everything for football.”
He reflected on his legacy, saying, “I’m in the game for the last 25 years, I did everything. I have many records. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”
Both Ronaldo and his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, are set to participate in their record sixth World Cups in 2026.
This achievement will break the tie they currently share with German legend Lothar Matthäus, who played in every World Cup from 1982 to 1998.
Argentina captain Messi, who will be the defending champion, is set to turn 39 during the group stage in North America. Notably, Portugal and Argentina are among the co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup, raising the possibility that both players could potentially conclude their World Cup careers on home soil.
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