‘The Moment to Stop’: Ronaldo Says 2026 Will Be His Last World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will “definitely” be the final World Cup appearance of his iconic career.
Speaking to CNN’s Becky Anderson at the Tourise Summit in Riyadh, the Portugal captain said age and timing make the decision clear.
“I will be 41 years old and I think will be the moment in the big competition,” Ronaldo said.
Despite hinting at retirement “soon,” he emphasized that he is still enjoying the game he has dedicated his life to.
A 25-Year Legacy: ‘I Did Everything’
Reflecting on a career spanning more than two decades, Ronaldo said he feels fulfilled after giving “everything for football.”
“I’m in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything. I have many records in different scenarios, in clubs and also the national team,” he said.
With 143 international goals, Ronaldo is the highest-scoring player in men’s international football and the only man to score in five different World Cups.
What Awaits in 2026
The expanded 48-team World Cup, the biggest in history, begins on June 11, 2026, across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The official draw takes place December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
A Billionaire Athlete and a Proud Father
Earlier this year, Ronaldo became football’s first billionaire player, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index — boosted by his major contract with Al Nassr.
But his biggest hope now centers on his son, Cristiano Jr., currently playing for Portugal’s U-16 setup.
“If my kids will be better than me, I’m never going to be jealous,” Ronaldo said. “As a father, I’m here to help him be whatever he wants to be.”
Conclusion
With the 2026 World Cup marking the end of an era, Ronaldo enters his final global tournament as one of the greatest ever to play the sport.
His message is clear: celebrate the moment, embrace the legacy, and look ahead to a new chapter — both for himself and his family.
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