2026 World Cup will be my last tournament, says Cristiano Ronaldo

Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final tournament of his illustrious career. The 41-year-old forward shared this news ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match against Spain, emphasizing his desire to savor every moment.

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It’s about enjoying it as much as possible. This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.

"It's about enjoying it as much as possible," Ronaldo told reporters. "This will be my last World Cup, but let's hope tomorrow isn't my last game." He affirmed that he will step away from international football with a clear conscience, stating, "Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, 100%, no, 1,000%. Because I've given everything to football."

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Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, 100%, no, 1,000%. Because I’ve given everything to football.

Ronaldo clarified that his continued participation is fueled by pure passion for the sport, not by any need to validate himself. "I don't need it; I have a good life, but it's about passion. I play football because I love it... You have to enjoy every day," he said, noting his three goals in the current tournament. He reflected on his journey, calling this World Cup the most emotionally rewarding of his career, citing the "people's passion" and an inexplicable heightened feeling this year.

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I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day.

Despite never having won the World Cup, Ronaldo stated that his legacy would not hinge on lifting the trophy. "I'm not lacking anything in life. I'm not going to be more or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup," he explained. He also expressed gratitude for the criticism he has faced throughout his career, viewing it as a crucial element in his personal growth. Ronaldo, currently contracted with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr until 2027, acknowledged the role of criticism in shaping him, stating, "I'm thankful even for the attacks I receive... that's how you grow the most as a person."

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This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of people’s passion. It’s even more this time; I don’t know why. It’s been, emotionally, the best.