Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed on Sunday that the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America will be the final World Cup of his international career.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match against Spain at SoFi Stadium.
>>> Severe Storms and Extreme Altitude Threaten England World Cup Match
Ronaldo said he is playing without pressure after a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32, where he became the oldest goalscorer in World Cup knockout history at 41 years and 147 days.
“It will be the last World Cup, yes. It’s about enjoying it to the fullest… I am not missing anything in life.
God has been very generous with me and gave me everything I never expected to win.
I am not going to be more Cristiano for winning the World Cup, nor less for not winning it,” Ronaldo said.
>>> Brazil Eliminated from World Cup After Endrick Misses Key Chance
Emotional Victory Dedicated to Late Teammate
The match against Croatia took place on the first anniversary of the death of former Portuguese international Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in July 2025.
Ronaldo dedicated the victory to his late teammate by holding up Jota's No. 21 jersey on the pitch.
During the match, the Al-Nassr forward scored a decisive penalty in the 68th minute, becoming the first male footballer to score 25 combined goals across the World Cup and European Championships.
>>> Venezuela President Rejects Unrest Risk Following Deadly Earthquakes
Manager Roberto Martínez substituted Ronaldo in the 81st minute as the team prepares to face Spain.
