Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on the global stage, signaling the end of an illustrious career that has spanned over two decades.
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The 40-year-old star made the disclosure on Tuesday during a Saudi-hosted global forum on tourism and investment. He explained that by the time the tournament begins, he would be 41 years old and ready to draw the curtain on his playing career.
Ronaldo, who has scored more than 950 career goals, hinted that he plans to retire within the next one or two years. Despite maintaining impressive form and continuing to score regularly, the Portuguese captain acknowledged that his playing days are numbered.
With Portugal close to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, the tournament is expected to mark his sixth and final participation, an achievement that will further cement his place in football history. His closest attempt at winning the trophy was in 2006, when Portugal lost to France in the semi-finals.
The football icon also spoke about his son, Cristiano Jr., who is developing his skills with Portugal’s Under-16 team. Ronaldo expressed that he wants his son to find happiness and pursue his own dreams, whether or not they align with football.
