Cristiano Ronaldo has officially declared that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his final appearance on the international stage.
The 40-year-old living legend of world football, Portugal and Al-Nassr captain confirmed this during a video appearance at a Tourism Forum in Riyadh on Tuesday, disclosing his fate about his future with the national team.
Asked if the 2026 World Cup tournament which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico would mark his World Cup farewell, he said, “Definitely, yes. I will be 41 years old. I think it will be the moment,” he said.
“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 soon is probably one or two years,” he added.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, highest paid footballer in history, also known as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has represented Portugal in every World Cup since 2006.
Despite leading his country to win several awards and League titles, the World Cup trophy remains the only major trophy missing from his football career.
Ronaldo is currently playing for Saudi Pro League, Al-Nassr, under a contract that runs until 2027.
He remains the all-time international goal scorer with 143 goals, all time World Cup qualifying goal scorer with 41 goals, all time UEFA Champions League goal scorer with 140 goals, and over 950 career goals.
Ronaldo’s goal staminal has won him several golden boots and many individual awards.
As the world prepares to witness Ronaldo’s sixth and likely his final World Cup appearance, fans are already referring to his career as an excellence, with a global influence in the World of Soccer.
