Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance at the tournament. The news was reported by Mundo Deportivo.
“Yes, it’s true, because I’ll be 41. I think in such a major competition, that will be my last time. For now, I’m just enjoying the moment,” Ronaldo said during an appearance at the TOURISE tourism forum in Saudi Arabia.
The football star joked that when he recently mentioned retiring “soon,” he meant “in ten years”: “People think I meant in six months or a year — but I was joking!” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner with a laugh.
Despite his age, Ronaldo stressed that he feels in great shape, continues to score goals, and enjoys playing for Al Nassr and the Portuguese national team. “I’m 40 years old, but my body is in good condition. I want to keep going, scoring goals, helping the team, and winning titles. This is my life,” he said.