Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last World Cup of his remarkable football career, revealing that his priority is to savour every remaining moment of the tournament.
The 41-year-old made the revelation on Sunday while addressing journalists ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 encounter against Spain.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” Ronaldo said.
“This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” he added.
The veteran forward explained that whenever the time comes to retire from international football, he will do so with complete peace of mind, confident that he has given everything possible 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,” he said.
According to Ronaldo, his continued presence on the pitch is inspired solely by his love for football rather than any desire to prove himself to critics or chase personal validation.
“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.
The Portuguese icon has once again made history during the tournament being staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico. He became the first footballer to score in six different FIFA World Cups after finding the net twice against Uzbekistan during the group stage.
He also converted a penalty against Croatia in the Round of 32, marking his maiden goal in the knockout phase of a FIFA World Cup.
Looking back on the competition, Ronaldo described the 2026 edition as the most emotionally fulfilling World Cup he has ever experienced.
“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.
Although he has never won the FIFA World Cup, the five-time Ballon d’Or recipient insisted that his football legacy would remain intact regardless of whether he eventually lifts the prestigious trophy.
“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.
Ronaldo, who remains under contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr until 2027, also reflected on the criticism he has received throughout his career, saying it has contributed significantly to his personal development.
“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.
