Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his legendary career, saying he wants to enjoy every moment of the tournament before bringing the curtain down on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash against Spain on Sunday, the 41-year-old admitted this would be his last appearance at the World Cup.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible. This will be my last World Cup, but hopefully tomorrow won’t be my last game,” Ronaldo said.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he has no regrets about his international career, stressing that he has given everything to football and will leave with a clear conscience whenever the time comes to retire.
“The day will come when I step away from international football. But whenever that happens, I’ll leave knowing I gave everything I had. I have no regrets,” he said.
Ronaldo explained that his passion for the game is what continues to motivate him rather than the need to prove anything.
“I play because I love football. It’s not about proving anything anymore. You have to enjoy every day. I’ve scored three goals at this World Cup, so I’m not doing too badly,” he added with a smile.
The Portuguese star has enjoyed another memorable tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, becoming the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cups. He also found the net against Croatia in the knockout stage, registering his first-ever World Cup knockout goal.
Reflecting on the competition, Ronaldo described the 2026 edition as the most emotional World Cup of his career.
“This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of the passion of the fans. Emotionally, it has been the best one for me, and I’ve truly enjoyed every moment,” he said.
Although he has never won the FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo insisted his legacy does not depend on lifting the trophy.
“I’m not lacking anything in life. Winning or not winning the World Cup won’t make me more or less Cristiano. Of course, we have the quality to win it, but only one team can become champions,” he said.
Ronaldo, who remains under contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr until 2027, also thanked critics and journalists, saying their criticism over the years has helped him grow both professionally and personally.
“I’m grateful even for the criticism I’ve received throughout my career. That’s how you grow as a person, and I appreciate the journalists for that,” he said.
