Ronaldo confirms 2026 was his last World Cup, says retirement decision can wait

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the last World Cup of his career. However, the 41-year-old Portuguese star said he has not yet decided whether he will retire from football.

Twenty-three years after making his international debut, Portugal's captain played his 233rd match for the national team in a 1-0 defeat to Spain national football team in Dallas, a result that knocked Portugal national football team out of the tournament in the Round of 16.

Ronaldo leaves the World Cup with a unique record, becoming the only player in history to score in six different World Cup tournaments.

Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said, “I am sad to leave like this, but I have given everything and always done my best. I leave with a clear conscience. This is football, this is the life of a footballer. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. You have to keep moving forward.”

He added, “Yes, this was my last World Cup. But I will not make any decisions about my future right now. I want to spend time with my family and think things through. I do not want to make decisions in the heat of the moment.”

Ronaldo said that winning UEFA Euro 2016 with Portugal in 2016 means as much to him as winning the World Cup.

“I have won three titles with Portugal. Before my time, Portugal had never won a major trophy. For me, the Euro 2016 title has the same value as a World Cup. I leave with a clear conscience. Tomorrow is another day, and life goes on,” he said.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez praised Ronaldo for his leadership and dedication.

“I thanked him. He has been an exemplary captain. When I arrived, there were many questions about his place in the team, but he has been an example not only because of his goals but also because of his leadership on and off the pitch. He is a role model and a football icon. There are not many players like Cristiano Ronaldo,” Martínez said.

He added that Ronaldo’s biggest dream was to win the World Cup, and although that dream was not fulfilled, he remained an outstanding example for everyone in the dressing room.

Martínez also defended his decision not to substitute Ronaldo during the match.

“When a team needs a goal, you do not take off your best goalscorer. His physical condition, experience, and presence in the penalty area were vital for us. Perhaps in extra time we could have used the fresh legs of Gonçalo Ramos, but at that stage we needed to keep our structure intact,” he said.

The match also marked Roberto Martínez’s final game as Portugal’s head coach.

“I am not disappointed. I am proud. We went toe-to-toe with one of the tournament’s favourites. I am immensely proud of our journey, our personality, and our focus,” he said.

Meanwhile, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised substitute Mikel Merino, whose late goal secured Spain’s victory.

“Merino is an exceptional player and one of the best in the world in his position. He delivered an outstanding performance and scored a fantastic goal. If I had to, I would carry him into the national team myself. Throughout the tournament, the contribution of our substitutes has been enormous,” he said.