Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last appearance on football’s biggest stage. Speaking via video link at a Saudi forum, the 40-year-old Portuguese forward said: “Definitely, yes … I’m gonna be 41 years old … I think it will be the moment.” This marks a pivotal moment in his legendary career.
Ronaldo also addressed his upcoming retirement from professional football, indicating it will happen within the next one or two years. “What I mean by soon is probably one or two years, I’ll still be at the game,” he said. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has scored more than 950 goals for club and country, acknowledged that while he still feels sharp and competitive, time is catching up.
Focused on enriching his legacy, Ronaldo began his career at Sporting CP and achieved legendary status at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus before moving to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. He stated that after nearly 25 years at the top level, the 2026 World Cup presents the right moment to draw the curtain on his international career.
In reflecting on his decision, Ronaldo added: “It will be difficult? Yes. Probably will cry, yes. I’m an open person. It will be very, very difficult, yes.” His words underscore the emotional gravity of the end of one of football’s most storied careers.
As Portugal and Ronaldo prepare for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, that campaign now carries extra weight—not just as one of many, but as the final chapter of one of football’s greatest ever players.
