Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Plans to Retire from International Competition After 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Portugal, has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the final World Cup of his illustrious career, stating that his focus is on savoring every moment of the tournament.

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This revelation was made by the 41-year-old while addressing reporters on Sunday, ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match against Spain.

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Ronaldo expressed his intention to make the most of the experience, saying "It's about enjoying it as much as possible" and adding "This will be my last World Cup, but let's hope tomorrow isn’t my last game".

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The five-time Ballon d'Or winner emphasized that he will eventually retire from international football with no regrets, asserting that he has given his all to the game.

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Ronaldo stated "The day will come [when I retire from international football]", and acknowledged that he will leave with a clear conscience, saying "whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience—100%, no, 1,000%Because I’ve given everything in football".

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He attributed his motivation to continue playing to his passion for the sport, rather than a need to prove anything, saying "I don’t need it; I have a good life, but it’s about passion".

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Ronaldo expressed his love for the game, stating "I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day", and noted that he has scored three goals at the World Cup, saying "I’m not doing too badly, right?".

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The Portuguese star has had a notable campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, becoming the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cups after netting twice against Uzbekistan in the group stage.

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Ronaldo also scored from the penalty spot against Croatia in the Round of 32, registering his first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match.

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Reflecting on the tournament, the former Manchester United forward described it as the most emotionally rewarding World Cup of his career, saying "It’s been fantasticIt goes beyond the pitch".

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Ronaldo expressed that this World Cup will be the most memorable for him, stating "This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of people’s passionIt’s even more this time; I don’t know whyIt’s been, emotionally, the best".

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Despite never having won the FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo asserted that his legacy will not be defined by whether he lifts the trophy, saying "I’m not lacking anything in lifeI’m not going to be more or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup".

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Ronaldo, who is under contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr until 2027, expressed gratitude for the criticism he has received throughout his career, saying "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".

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Ronaldo thanked the journalists for the criticism, stating "and I thank you, journalists, for that".