Ronaldo: 2026 World Cup My Last
By Favour Nwankwo
Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance at football’s biggest tournament, signaling the end of a career spanning more than 25 years. The 40-year-old forward made the announcement on Tuesday during a Saudi-hosted global forum on tourism and investment, adding that he plans to retire from football within “one or two years.”
Ronaldo, who has scored over 950 goals for club and country, told reporters via video link, “Definitely, yes. I’m going to be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment.” Speaking with his usual humor, he added, “Soon for me means in 10 years… No, I’m joking. I’m really enjoying the moment right now. I feel very good at this moment. I score goals, and I still feel quick and sharp. I’m enjoying my game in the national team. But of course, let’s be honest. What I mean by soon is probably one or two years.”
With Portugal close to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Ronaldo confirmed that the tournament will mark his last on the world stage. Reflecting on his career since joining Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia in 2023, he said, “I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything, I have many records in different scenarios at clubs and also with the national team. I’m really proud so let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”
Ronaldo also spoke about his son, Cristiano Jr, who is currently playing with Portugal’s Under-16 team. “As human beings, we don’t always want anybody to be better than us. But I wish my kids would be better than me. I’m never going to be jealous of him. I don’t want to add pressure to that, because what I want for him is to be happy. It doesn’t matter if he wants to play football or another sport. Be happy, be free. Don’t be under the pressure of your daddy because that is a lot. This is a new generation, a different generation. They think differently, they live differently. But as a father, I’m here to help him be whatever he wants to be. I will be his support.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is aiming for his sixth World Cup next year. Portugal can secure their place in the tournament with a win over Ireland on Thursday, moving closer to giving Ronaldo a final chance to compete on the world stage.