Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has shared insights into his future, indicating that the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the end of his participation in major international competitions.
The 40-year-old striker, currently playing for Saudi club Al-Nassr, extended his contract with the team through 2027 just a few months ago.
Despite his enduring success on the field, where he has netted over 950 goals since starting his professional career at Sporting Lisbon in 2002, Ronaldo emphasized his desire to step away soon and focus on family life.
Speaking remotely at a global summit on tourism and investment in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo lightened the mood with a joke about retiring in a decade before clarifying his timeline.
“I’m truly savoring this phase of my career,” he explained. “At my age, time flies in football. I still feel energetic, I’m finding the net, and I’m relishing my time with the national squad. But realistically, I’m looking at wrapping things up in the next one or two years.”
With Portugal poised to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup—needing only two more points from their match against Ireland—Ronaldo affirmed that the event, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, would be his farewell to the global stage.
“Absolutely, it’ll be my last one,” he stated, noting he’d turn 41 during the tournament. The World Cup remains the one prestigious accolade absent from his extensive collection, which includes countless club honors and a record 143 goals for Portugal.
Reflecting on his illustrious 25-year journey, Ronaldo expressed immense pride in his achievements across various clubs and international duties.
“I’ve given my all to the sport,” he said. “I’ve set numerous records in different arenas. Now, it’s about cherishing the present.”
On a personal note, Ronaldo touched on his son, Cristiano dos Santos Jr., who is carving his own path in the game with Portugal’s Under-16 side.
“As a parent, I want him to surpass me if possible, but without any envy on my part,” Ronaldo shared. “The key is his happiness and freedom—whether in soccer or elsewhere.
I won’t burden him with expectations tied to my legacy. This generation operates differently, and I’m here to guide him toward whatever fulfills him.”