Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the final World Cup of his illustrious career after Portugal’s heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
Dallas, United States – Web Desk: Portugal’s dream of lifting its first FIFA World Cup trophy came to an emotional end after Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Spain into the quarter-finals. Ronaldo was seen leaving the pitch in tears following the final whistle.
Speaking to the media after the match, Ronaldo admitted he was disappointed with the result but said he leaves the tournament with a clear conscience.
“I gave everything I had and tried my absolute best. I leave today with a clear conscience. Football, like life, brings both victories and defeats,” the Portuguese legend said.
When asked whether this had been his final FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo replied, “Yes, this was my last World Cup.”
The 41-year-old said he now plans to spend time with his family before making any decisions about his future.
“I won’t rush into any decision. I want to reflect calmly on what comes next,” he added.
Ronaldo did not confirm whether the match against Spain was also his final appearance for the Portugal national team, saying he did not want any personal decision to overshadow the team’s campaign.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he remains proud of his 23-year international career, during which he helped Portugal win the UEFA Euro 2016 title and the UEFA Nations League crowns in 2019 and 2025.
He described Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph as the greatest achievement in the country’s football history, adding that, for him, it carries the same emotional significance as winning a World Cup.
Ronaldo has scored 976 career goals for club and country, won five Ballon d’Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles, and numerous domestic trophies. However, the FIFA World Cup remains the only major title missing from his remarkable career.
He represented Portugal in six FIFA World Cups, with the team’s best finish coming in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals in Ronaldo’s first World Cup appearance.
If Ronaldo continues his international career, his next major tournament could be UEFA Euro 2028, when he would be 43 years old.
