Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance in the tournament for Portugal. The forward made the revelation as Portugal prepared for their last-16 clash against Spain, a match that could potentially be his last in international football.
"It's about enjoying it as much as possible," Ronaldo said on Sunday. "This will be my last World Cup, but let's hope tomorrow isn't my last game."
Ronaldo stated that he has a clear conscience regarding his international career, emphasizing his dedication and passion for the sport. "Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1,000%. 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." He also noted his personal success in the tournament thus far, having scored three goals.
Despite facing criticism throughout his career, Ronaldo asserted that it has only made him stronger. "They've tried to kill me for 23 years. There's no point paying too much attention to it. It's part of it... People in Portugal have faith, they never fail us, they're always on our side, my side. All the rest is rubbish. It doesn't matter at all." He expressed gratitude for the support and even for the criticism received, stating, "Age gives you maturity and experience. I'm thankful even for the attacks I receive. That's how you grow as a person, it has made me stronger, and I thank you journalists for that, because of that I've grown even more."
Ronaldo described the current World Cup experience as "fantastic" and the most memorable due to the passion of the fans, calling it "emotionally, the best."