Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his illustrious international career.
Speaking to CNN’s Becky Anderson during the Tourism Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the 39-year-old football icon said the upcoming tournament would “definitely” be his last.
“I will be 41 years old and I think that will be the moment to stop in the big competition,” Ronaldo said.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who holds the record for the most international goals in football history, admitted he is nearing the end of his playing days.
“I’m enjoying the moment, but when I say soon, it’s really soon. I gave everything for football,” he added. “I’ve been in the game for 25 years. I did everything — many records at clubs and in the national team. I’m really proud, so now it’s time to enjoy and live the moment.”
Ronaldo, who has scored 143 goals for Portugal, remains the only male footballer to score in five different World Cups.
The 2026 World Cup — the first to feature 48 teams — will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, beginning on June 11. The tournament draw is set for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Earlier this year, Bloomberg reported that Ronaldo became football’s first-ever billionaire player following his lucrative contract with Saudi club Al Nassr.
The legendary forward also spoke about his son, Cristiano Jr., who currently plays for Portugal’s under-16 side, expressing hope that the youngster will one day surpass his achievements.
“Human beings, we don’t want anyone being better than us,” Ronaldo said. “But in my case, I hope my kids will be better than me. I’ll never be jealous of him — trust me.”
He added that his greatest wish is simply for his son to find happiness:
“As a father, I’m here to help him become whatever he wants to be.”
