Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last

Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark his final appearance on the world's biggest football stage. The announcement came just before Portugal's crucial Round of 16 match against Spain, leaving open the possibility that this game could be his last in the tournament if Portugal does not advance.

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This will be my last World Cup, but I hope tomorrow's match is not the last.

While Ronaldo had previously remained tight-lipped about his future in the World Cup, he definitively stated that the upcoming edition in the United States will be his last. "This will be my last World Cup, but I hope tomorrow's match is not the last," he said, expressing a desire to continue playing.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner stated that he would have no regrets even if he ended his international career without lifting the World Cup trophy. "Whatever happens, I will leave this stage with a clear conscience because I have given my all to football. I play because of passion and love for this sport. Every day must be enjoyed to the fullest," he added.

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Whatever happens, I will leave this stage with a clear conscience because I have given my all to football. I play because of passion and love for this sport. Every day must be enjoyed to the fullest.

Ronaldo has scored three goals in the current tournament, including two in Portugal's victory over Uzbekistan, demonstrating his continued impact despite earlier criticism regarding his performance. He described the 2026 World Cup experience as the most meaningful of his career, citing the "extraordinary" support and spirit from fans as the "best experience" he has ever had emotionally.

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This is the World Cup that I will remember the most. The support and spirit of the fans this time is extraordinary. From an emotional point of view, this is the best experience I have ever had.

Addressing criticism throughout his career, the 41-year-old player stated it no longer affects him. "They have been criticizing me for 23 years. That's part of life as a footballer. The Portuguese people have always supported me and the team. The rest doesn't matter. I am grateful for everything I have and every criticism received has made me more mature and stronger," he said. Ronaldo hopes Portugal will progress further in the tournament, extending his World Cup journey beyond the Round of 16.

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They have been criticizing me for 23 years. That's part of life as a footballer. The Portuguese people have always supported me and the team. The rest doesn't matter. I am grateful for everything I have and every criticism received has made me more mature and stronger.