Cristiano Ronaldo, the 40-year-old Portugal international, expressed his belief that he has around one or two years remaining in his football career. He confidently stated that the 2026 World Cup will mark his final appearance in the prestigious tournament. Ronaldo made these remarks during a recent interview at the TOURISE Riyadh event conducted via video link.
When asked about his retirement plans, Ronaldo initially joked about the term “soon,” suggesting it could mean another decade before clarifying that he envisions continuing for only a short while longer. He emphasized his current enjoyment of the game, stating that despite his age, he still feels physically sharp and quick, actively contributing to both his national team and Al Nassr.
Confirming that the 2026 World Cup will be his swan song on the global stage, Ronaldo acknowledged the significance of the event and expressed pride in his accomplishments over his 25-year football career. Despite having achieved numerous records at club and national levels, including a Euro victory with Portugal in 2016, the World Cup title remains a notable accolade that has eluded him.
Ronaldo’s commitment to football was evident as he reflected on his imminent retirement, acknowledging the emotional challenge it will pose. He anticipates the difficulty of the transition but remains open about the emotions he may experience, including the possibility of shedding tears.
As a prominent figure in football, Ronaldo’s announcement regarding his future retirement plans has garnered significant attention, with fans and sports enthusiasts eagerly anticipating his final performances leading up to the 2026 World Cup.