“I still have goals to achieve at Al‑Nassr, but the World Cup will be my last.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance in the tournament. Speaking at a summit in Riyadh on November 11, 2025, the 40-year-old Portuguese superstar said he will be 41 during the World Cup. He feels it is the right time to step away from football’s biggest stage. He called it a “special and emotional” moment.
Ronaldo clarified that his earlier comments about retiring “soon” mean in the next one or two years. He still has a contract with Saudi club Al‑Nassr until 2027. The 2026 World Cup will mark the end of his World Cup journey. Fans around the world are expected to bid farewell to one of football’s greatest players.
The legendary forward has scored over 950 goals for club and country. He also holds the record for most international goals by a male player. While he has achieved almost everything in football, a World Cup trophy still eludes him.
If he plays in 2026, it will be his sixth World Cup appearance. His presence will inspire both teammates and fans. This marks the closing chapter of one of football’s greatest careers.