Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo announced that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his career in World Cup tournaments. However, he clarified that he does not intend to retire from international football, expressing hope that his upcoming games will not be his last.
Ronaldo, aged 41, highlighted his positive performance in the current World Cup, having already scored three goals. Notably, he scored twice against Uzbekistan in the group stage and netted a penalty against Croatia in the round of 32, marking his first goal in a World Cup knockout stage.
Addressing questions about retirement, Ronaldo emphasized that the decision rests solely with him. He affirmed his commitment to the national team, stating that his role within the team will remain significant regardless of his playing status. Ronaldo emphasized his dedication to football, expressing his intention to conclude his career on his terms.
Reflecting on his illustrious international career, Ronaldo has amassed 232 appearances for Portugal and holds the record for scoring 146 international goals. He led Portugal to victory in Euro 2016 and subsequently secured the UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, showcasing his leadership and success on the international stage.
Ronaldo, emotionally touched by the fervor of football fans during the tournament, praised the passion exhibited by supporters worldwide. He shared a poignant moment where fans from Venezuela and Colombia expressed their admiration, underscoring the emotional connection and impact of football on people’s lives.
With an impressive career tally of 976 goals for both club and country, Ronaldo is nearing the milestone of 1,000 goals, highlighting his exceptional scoring prowess and relentless pursuit of excellence in football.
