Lisbon, November 11: Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final international tournament, signaling the end of a two-decade-long era for Portugal’s greatest player.
In an exclusive interview with CNN, Ronaldo, who continues to lead Portugal’s campaign toward World Cup qualification, said he feels “blessed” to have represented his country for over 20 years but believes “it’s time to prepare for the next chapter.”
“The 2026 World Cup will be my last dance on the international stage. I’ve given everything for Portugal, and I want to finish with pride,” Ronaldo said during the interview.
🏆 A Career Defined by Records and Resilience
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has amassed over 200 international appearances and more than 125 goals, making him the highest-scoring male footballer in history.
From lifting the UEFA Euro 2016 trophy to guiding Portugal to the 2019 Nations League title, Ronaldo’s impact on international football remains unparalleled.
“It’s not about age—it’s about passion, performance, and preparation,” he said, emphasizing that physical and mental discipline have allowed him to remain competitive at 40.
🌎 Focus on 2026 — and Beyond
Set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup could offer Ronaldo one last chance at the only major title that has eluded him — the FIFA World Cup trophy.
Reports suggest the Portuguese skipper is mentoring younger players such as João Félix and Rafael Leão, ensuring the national team’s seamless transition post his retirement.
After 2026, Ronaldo hinted at remaining connected to football — possibly in an ambassadorial or mentorship role, or through his CR7 academies.
🗣️ Reactions Flood Social Media
Fans across the globe flooded X (formerly Twitter) with emotional tributes under hashtags #ThankYouRonaldo and #LastDance2026, hailing the end of an era.
Teammates, including Bruno Fernandes and Pepe, expressed admiration, calling him “the heartbeat of Portuguese football.”
