Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the final World Cup appearance of his career, saying he intends to cherish every moment of the tournament.
The 41-year-old made the disclosure on Sunday while addressing reporters ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 encounter against Spain.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” Ronaldo said.
“This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” he added.
The veteran forward said he would eventually retire from international football with complete satisfaction, stressing that he has dedicated everything he could to the sport throughout his career.
“The day will come [when I retire from international football]. But I’ll be honest: whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience—100%, no, 1,000%. Because I’ve given everything in football,” he said.
According to Ronaldo, his decision to keep playing is inspired solely by his love for football and not by any desire to silence critics or prove himself.
“I don’t need it; I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals at this World Cup. I’m not doing too badly, right?” he said.
Ronaldo has enjoyed another remarkable tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico. During the group stage, he became the first footballer to score in six different FIFA World Cups after netting twice against Uzbekistan.
He later added a penalty against Croatia in the Round of 32, recording the first knockout-stage World Cup goal of his career.
Looking back on the competition, the former Manchester United star described the 2026 edition as the most emotionally fulfilling World Cup he has experienced.
“It’s been fantastic. It goes beyond the pitch. This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of people’s passion. It’s even more this time; I don’t know why. It’s been, emotionally, the best. I’ve enjoyed it very much,” he said.
Although the World Cup trophy has eluded him throughout his career, Ronaldo insisted that winning it would not define his legacy or determine how he views his achievements.
“I’m not lacking anything in life. I’m not going to be more or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup. We have the qualities to win, but only one country can win it. Age gives you maturity and experience,” he said.
The Al-Nassr forward, whose contract with the Saudi Pro League club runs until 2027, also reflected on the criticism he has faced over the years, saying it has contributed to his personal growth.
“I’m thankful even for the attacks I receive, turning 40 — and I hope to live another 40 years — with the criticism, that’s how you grow the most as a person, and I thank you, journalists, for that,” he said.