ARLINGTON, Texas — Cristiano Ronaldo said Sunday that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last of his career as Portugal prepares to face Spain in the Round of 16.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain made the announcement during a news conference at AT&T Stadium a day before Portugal’s knockout match against its Iberian rival.
“I want to enjoy what will be my last World Cup to the fullest,” Ronaldo said. “Hopefully, tomorrow won’t be my last match.”
Ronaldo, who is playing in his sixth World Cup, said he is grateful for his career and wants to enjoy the remainder of the tournament regardless of the outcome.
“There’s nothing missing,” he said. “God was so generous toward me. He gave me everything I never expected to win, especially at the national team and personally. So it’s enjoying every moment.”
During the news conference, Ronaldo shared a lighthearted story about meeting an Argentine flight attendant before joking with reporters about criticism he has received throughout his career.
“You can keep bashing me some more,” he said with a smile.
Ronaldo enters the match against Spain as international football’s all-time leading scorer with 146 goals. He scored the equalizer in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 and has three goals in the tournament.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said his team must remain aware of Ronaldo’s ability to influence the match.
“He has the talent, the class and the quality, and at any moment he can be decisive for the game,” de la Fuente said.
Portugal is seeking a second consecutive World Cup quarterfinal appearance. Ronaldo’s deepest World Cup run came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semifinals.
Asked about adapting his game at age 41, Ronaldo said he has adjusted to the physical demands of his career while remaining capable of scoring.
“What I have done throughout my career is adjust to the nuances of age,” he said. “One thing I can understand very clearly is nothing has changed because I can still score a goal. I hope I do that tomorrow, and if I don’t, I hope others on the team do.”
Ronaldo has scored 11 career World Cup goals, including three in the current tournament. Portugal will face Spain on Monday for a place in the quarterfinals.
