Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last World Cup of his illustrious playing career.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash with Spain, the 41-year-old captain ended months of speculation about his international future.
“Let this be my last World Cup; it is my last World Cup, and I hope tomorrow won’t be my last match,” Ronaldo told reporters, drawing a standing ovation from journalists as he left the room. (ESPN)
The announcement marks the end of an extraordinary World Cup journey that began in 2006. Ronaldo has become the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cups, adding another historic milestone to a career already filled with individual and team honours. (People.com)
Although he had previously avoided confirming whether he would feature at the 2030 tournament—which Portugal will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco—Ronaldo has now made it clear that 2026 will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. (People.com)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Ronaldo leaves behind a remarkable World Cup legacy while continuing to add to an international career that has spanned more than two decades.
