Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last World Cup of his career, saying he is focused on enjoying the tournament.
According to The Punch, the 41-year-old made the announcement on Sunday while speaking to reporters ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash 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 five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he would eventually retire from international football with no regrets, insisting that he had given everything to the sport.
“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.
Ronaldo added that his motivation to keep playing comes from passion rather than the need to 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.
The Portuguese forward has enjoyed another memorable World Cup campaign, becoming the first player to score in six different editions of the tournament after netting twice against Uzbekistan in the group stage.
He also scored from the penalty spot against Croatia in the Round of 32, recording his first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match.
Reflecting on the competition, Ronaldo described the 2026 World Cup as the most emotional of his career.
“It’s been fantastic. It goes beyond the pitch. This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most because of people’s passion,” he said.
Despite never winning the World Cup, Ronaldo said his legacy would not be defined by whether Portugal lifts the trophy.
“I’m not lacking anything in life. I’m not going to be more or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup,” he said.
