LISBON, Portugal (BN24)— Cristiano Ronaldo said Tuesday that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage, signaling the approaching end of a career that has spanned more than 20 years.
The 40-year-old Portuguese forward, who has scored more than 950 goals in club and international competition, announced a Saudi forum, speaking via video link. When asked if the 2026 World Cup would be his swan song, Ronaldo said, “Definitely, yes. I’m gonna be 41 years old and I think it will be the moment.”
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, also confirmed that he plans to retire from professional football within the next one or two years. “When I mean soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be at the game,” he said, elaborating on comments made last week about retiring “soon.”
The veteran forward, who joined Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in 2023 after leaving Manchester United for a second spell in late 2022, has continued to attract attention for his late-career moves. His transfer to the Saudi club was part of a wider trend of internationally renowned stars signing with teams in the oil-rich kingdom, which has invested heavily in sports and entertainment as part of its economic diversification plan.
Ronaldo is targeting a sixth World Cup next year. His closest attempt at lifting the trophy came in 2006, when Portugal was eliminated by France in the semifinals. Portugal has yet to qualify for the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but a win over Ireland on Thursday could secure the team’s spot.
Ronaldo’s career has seen him play for some of the world’s top clubs, including Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His scoring record and longevity have made him one of the most decorated footballers in history, and his decision to retire will mark the end of an era for Portugal and global football.
Saudi Arabia, where Ronaldo now plays, has continued to raise its profile in the football world. Last December, the kingdom was awarded the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup, underscoring its ambitions to become a central hub for sports and entertainment.
Ronaldo’s announcement adds to the anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup, where fans and pundits alike will look to see the final international performances of one of football’s all-time greats.
