Ronaldo Confirms: This Will Be His Last World Cup
Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo stated in a press conference ahead of the round of 16 match against Spain that the 2026 World Cup will be his last.
A day before the round of 16 clash against Spain at the 2026 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo made a career announcement during a press conference. The 41-year-old Portuguese forward, playing in his sixth World Cup, said he is trying to enjoy the tournament as much as possible and hopes that tomorrow's game will not be his last.
This is not the first time Ronaldo has spoken about retirement; he made similar comments last November before Portugal had secured a spot in the tournament. He emphasized that regardless of the outcome against Spain, he will leave the pitch with a clear conscience, having given everything to football. He added that he continues to play because he loves the sport.
Ronaldo noted that this World Cup has been emotional and he will remember it most vividly, especially for the experiences off the field. Although he has never won the World Cup trophy, he believes his career legacy does not require it – he lacks nothing in life, and the title would not change that.
Portugal faces current European champion Spain in the round of 16. The teams last met in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final, which Portugal won on penalties. Their last World Cup encounter was in 2018, ending in a 3-3 draw.
Spain remains the only team in the tournament not to have conceded a goal, while Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in the round of 16. France, Morocco, England, and Norway have already reached the quarterfinals.
The 2026 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams and is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The semifinals are scheduled for July 14 and 15, the bronze medal match for July 18, and the final for July 19.
