HOUSTON: Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed Sunday that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final major international tournament of his career.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 match against Spain, the 41-year-old said he intends to enjoy every moment of the tournament and hopes his team’s World Cup journey is not over yet.
“When the time comes to retire from international football, I will leave satisfied because I know I have given everything I could for my country and for the game,” Ronaldo said.
He added that he continues to play out of passion and no longer feels the need to prove himself.
Ronaldo has scored three goals at the 2026 World Cup, including two against Uzbekistan in the group stage to become the first player to score in six different World Cup editions. He also scored his first career World Cup knockout-stage goal with a penalty against Croatia.
The Portugal star described the 2026 tournament as the most emotional World Cup of his career.
Ronaldo also said criticism has helped shape him throughout his career, adding that every challenge has made him a better player and person.
