Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portugal captain, has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last international tournament. Speaking on the eve of Portugal's last-16 clash against Spain in Dallas, Ronaldo acknowledged that this could be his final match for his country.
Ronaldo's Emotional Admission
After 23 years, 232 games, and 146 goals across six World Cups, Ronaldo finally admitted what many had long suspected. "This will be my last World Cup; God willing tomorrow is not my last game," he said. If it is, he accepts it with peace, even without the one trophy that has eluded him. "I'm not missing anything; God has been generous to me. I won't be more Cristiano or less Cristiano if I win the World Cup or not."
From Humble Beginnings to Grand Stage
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003 against Kazakhstan in Chaves before just 8,000 fans, coming on as a half-time substitute for Luís Figo. Now, he faces Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, before 80,000 spectators. Defeat would end Portugal's campaign and his international career.
A Career of Resilience
In a reflective press conference, Ronaldo joked about the media's constant scrutiny. "They've tried to kill me for 23 years," he said, noting that his three goals at this tournament prove he is still performing. When asked if he might return, he quipped, "You don't want me back." He emphasized his passion for the game: "I don't need it; I live well, but it's about passion. I play football because I love it."
Facing Spain and the Future
Ronaldo urged Portugal fans to have faith, dismissing criticism as "rubbish." He expressed gratitude for the challenges he has faced, saying they made him stronger. "Whatever happens tomorrow, I will leave with a clear conscience, not 100% but 1,000% because I have given everything to football." He added, "Hopefully tomorrow is not the last day. And then you can kill me a bit more."
