Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Tuesday that next year’s World Cup will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage, marking the end of one of the sport’s most illustrious careers.
The 40-year-old forward, who has scored over 950 goals for club and country, also stated that he intends to retire from football in “one or two years.”
When asked over a video link at a Saudi-hosted global tourism and investment summit if the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance, he said, “Definitely, yes. I’ll be 41 years old, and I believe this will be the moment.
Ronaldo joked, “Soon for me means in ten years.” No, I am joking. I’m really enjoying this time right now. As you are aware, in football, when you reach a particular age, you count the months quickly.
“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 by soon is probably one or two years.”
Ronaldo, who joined Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023, has confirmed that he will retire “soon” as Portugal prepares for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Reflecting on his career after joining Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023, Ronaldo commented on his previous comments about retiring “soon”.
“Let’s be honest, when I say soon, it’s probably one or two years. I’ll still be in the game. Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old (at the World Cup).
“I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything; I have many records in different scenarios at clubs and also with the national team. I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”
Ronaldo also spoke on his son, Cristiano Jr., who is following in his footsteps with the Portugal Under-16 team:
“As human beings, we don’t always want anybody to be better than us. But I wish my kids would be better than me. I’m never going to be jealous of him.
“I don’t want to add pressure to that, because what I want for him is to be happy. It doesn’t matter if he wants to play football or another sport. Be happy, be free. Don’t be under the pressure of your daddy because that is a lot.
“This is a new generation, a different generation. They think differently; they live differently. But as a father, I’m here to help him be whatever he wants to be. I will be his support.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is aiming for a sixth World Cup next year.
His best chance to win the title came in 2006, when Portugal was eliminated by France in the semi-finals.
Portugal has yet to qualify for the 2026 tournament, but a win over Ireland on Thursday would seal their participation.
