Global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance in the prestigious tournament. The Portuguese captain, who will be 41 years old by then, is set to make history by becoming the first player ever to feature in six World Cups.
The Al-Nassr forward made the announcement during a tourism event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “Yes, for sure, I will be 41 years old and I think that will be the time. I’m enjoying this moment,” Ronaldo stated, bringing clarity to the long-standing question about his international future.
However, in a classic Ronaldo twist, the legendary striker immediately joked about his playing career beyond the World Cup, hinting that he could continue for another decade. He clarified his unique perspective on retirement, saying, “When I say soon, people think six months or a year. I mean another year or two,” drawing laughter from the audience.
Ronaldo, who has led Portugal to victory in the Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League, remains a potent force on the field. He has started the current season strongly, scoring 10 goals in 11 matches for Al-Nassr. He also confirmed his intention to continue playing club football after the World Cup, having recently signed a two-year contract extension, and remains focused on his personal goal of reaching 1,000 career goals.
