Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his career, saying he is determined to enjoy every moment of the tournament before bringing the curtain down on his World Cup journey.
The 41-year-old football icon made the announcement on Sunday while speaking to reporters ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash against Spain.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” Mr Ronaldo said.
“This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” he added.
‘I’ll leave with a clear conscience’
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he would eventually retire from international football without regrets, insisting he had given everything to the sport throughout his career.
“The day will come when I retire from international football. But I’ll be honest: whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience 100%, no, 1,000%. Because I’ve given everything in football,” Mr Ronaldo said.
He stressed that his motivation to continue playing is driven by passion rather than the desire to prove anything.
“I don’t need it; I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it. You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals at this World Cup. I’m not doing too badly, right?” he said.
Historic World Cup campaign
The Portuguese superstar has enjoyed another remarkable tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Mr. Ronaldo became the first player in football history to score in six different FIFA World Cups after netting twice against Uzbekistan during the group stage.
He also converted a penalty against Croatia in the Round of 32, registering the first knockout-stage World Cup goal of his career.
‘The most emotional World Cup’
Reflecting on the competition, Mr Ronaldo described the 2026 edition as the most emotionally fulfilling World Cup of his career.
“It’s been fantastic. It goes beyond the pitch. This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of people’s passion. It’s even more this time; I don’t know why. It’s been, emotionally, the best. I’ve enjoyed it very much,” he said.
Legacy beyond the trophy
Despite never winning the FIFA World Cup, Mr Ronaldo insisted his legacy would not be defined by whether he eventually lifts football’s biggest prize.
“I’m not lacking anything in life. I’m not going to be more or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup. We have the qualities to win, but only one country can win it. Age gives you maturity and experience,” he said.
The veteran forward remains under contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr FC until 2027.
Mr Ronaldo also expressed gratitude for the criticism he has received throughout his career, saying it has helped shape him both professionally and personally.
“I’m thankful even for the attacks I receive, turning 40—and I hope to live another 40 years—with the criticism. That’s how you grow the most as a person, and I thank you, journalists, for that,” he said.
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