Cristiano Ronaldo says 2026 World Cup will mark his final appearance

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the current 2022 FIFA World Cup will be his last one for the Portuguese national team.

This has been disclosed by the 41-year-old star during an interview at the pre-match press conference before Portugal takes on Spain in the Round of 16 in the ongoing World Cup held in USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Ronaldo is the first player to have participated in six World Cups, and at the same time, he is the oldest player to participate in the knockout stages.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty to help Portugal win 2-1 against Croatia in the Round of 32.

Besides announcing the end of his participation in the World Cup, Ronaldo expressed his intention of taking Portugal far in the knockout stages, and stated that he will retire of his own choice.

“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible… This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game. 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, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in football. 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?”

Ronaldo is one of the most criticised football superstars in a accolades-laden career that includes five Ballon D’Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles, and the Euro 2020 title.

However, the Saudi League winner with Al Nassr defiantly stated that missing out on winning the World Cup will not diminish his legacy, and that he expects more criticism after retirement.

“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.

“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.”

Portugal face Spain in the round of 16 match at the Dallas stadium in Texas on Monday, July 6.