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Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Last But the Al-Nassr Icon Jokes About Playing Until 2050

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark his final appearance on football’s grandest stage, closing a record-breaking international career that has redefined the modern game.

Speaking at a tourism forum in Riyadh, the 40-year-old Portuguese legend admitted that next summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be his last dance with Portugal, saying with a smile: “Yes, for sure. I’ll be 41 then, and I think that will be the time. But I’m enjoying every moment.”

Despite acknowledging that the end is near, Ronaldo couldn’t resist joking about his longevity: “People think I’ll retire soon, but for me, ‘soon’ could mean 10 more years!” The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who extended his contract with Al-Nassr in 2025, remains determined to reach the astonishing milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectation. In the current Saudi Pro League season, he has already scored 10 goals in 11 matches, helping Al-Nassr maintain a perfect start under coach Jorge Jesus. Alongside fellow Portuguese star João Félix, he remains the heartbeat of the team.

Internationally, Ronaldo’s ambition remains undimmed. He has already lifted the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019, but the elusive World Cup trophy still drives him. While he insists that his legacy doesn’t depend on matching Lionel Messi’s global triumph, the chance to complete his collection remains a burning motivation.

Now in his 40s, Ronaldo admits that he’s savoring every goal and every game. “When you reach a certain age, you start counting the months. I try to enjoy it all—the goals, the training, the fans. My body feels good, and I still love the competition.”

There is even speculation that Ronaldo might one day share the pitch with his son, Cristiano Jr., who is already impressing in Al-Nassr’s academy and Portugal’s youth system. For now, though, Ronaldo’s focus is clear: end his career on his own terms, with one last shot at global glory.

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