HOUSTON: Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his illustrious career.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 clash against Spain, the 41-year-old forward said he wants to savor every moment of the tournament and hopes Portugal's campaign will continue for as long as possible.
"When the time comes to retire from international football, I will leave with a clear conscience," Ronaldo said. "I know I have given everything I could for my country and for football."
Ronaldo added that he continues to play purely out of passion and no longer feels the need to prove himself to anyone.
The veteran striker has scored three goals at the 2026 World Cup. He netted twice against Uzbekistan in the group stage to become the first player to score in six different World Cup editions.
He also converted a penalty against Croatia in the knockout stage, marking the first World Cup knockout goal of his career.
Ronaldo described the 2026 tournament as the most emotionally significant World Cup of his career.
He also said criticism has played an important role in his development, adding that every challenge and experience has helped him become a better player and person.
More read, Cristiano Ronaldo finally ends World Cup knockout curse
Earlier, For almost 20 years, Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved success on nearly every stage in football. He has dominated the UEFA Champions League, won international trophies with Portugal and broken goal-scoring records around the world.
However, one record followed him throughout his career, he had never scored in a FIFA World Cup knockout match. That finally changed in Toronto.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain ended that long wait by scoring a second-half penalty against Croatia, adding another major milestone to his career and helping Portugal continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey.
