Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament for Portugal, potentially bringing the curtain down on a 23-year international career when his side face Spain in the last 16 on Monday.
The 41-year-old captain made the announcement at his pre-match press conference in Dallas, admitting that “God willing tomorrow is not my last game” but accepting that defeat against Spain would end his World Cup journey. The match at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington represents a stark contrast to his debut in 2003, when he replaced Luís Figo as a half-time substitute against Kazakhstan before just 8,000 spectators. Monday’s fixture will be played before approximately 80,000 fans.
Legacy Independent of Trophy
Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals in 232 appearances for Portugal across six World Cup campaigns, struck a philosophical tone when discussing his international legacy. He stated that winning the trophy would not define him: “I won’t be more Cristiano or less Cristiano,” he said, regardless of the outcome. “I’m not missing anything,” he added, explaining that “God has been generous to me.”
The forward maintains that his motivation remains passion rather than obligation. He explained that he does not need football financially but continues because he loves the sport. He refused to burden his team with expectation, insisting that “what will be will be” and stressing the importance of enjoying the experience daily.
Twenty-Three Years of Scrutiny
Ronaldo also addressed the sustained criticism he has faced throughout his time with the national team, noting that critics have “tried to kill me” throughout his 23-year international career. He suggested such attacks have ultimately strengthened his resolve, thanking journalists for contributing to his personal growth and insisting that “age gives you maturity and experience.”
Despite the looming finality of the occasion, Ronaldo initially attempted to deflect questions about his future, stating that such speculation “isn’t important” compared to the immediate task of advancing past Spain. However, he later conceded that the tournament in North America represents his final opportunity to capture the only major honour missing from his collection.
Ronaldo has scored three goals at this tournament and maintains he is “not doing too badly” as he prepares for what could be his 233rd international appearance. A victory against Spain would extend his career by at least one more round, keeping alive Portugal’s hopes of securing a first World Cup title.
He vowed to depart with a “clear conscious” whatever happens, insisting he has “given everything to football.”