Portugal captain says he wants to savour every moment as his final World Cup campaign continues with a crucial clash against Spain.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his extraordinary international career, as Portugal prepare for a high-stakes Round of 16 encounter against Spain national football team.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday ahead of the knockout fixture, the 41-year-old Portugal captain said he intends to enjoy every remaining moment of the tournament while hoping his farewell campaign continues.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible. This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” Ronaldo said.
The veteran forward, who plays club football for Al Nassr FC, said he does not want the pressure of winning football’s biggest prize to overshadow his appreciation of representing his country on the world stage.
Ronaldo reflects on his football legacy
Looking back on a career spanning more than two decades, Ronaldo said his legacy would not be determined solely by whether he wins the one major international trophy that has eluded him.
“The day will come when I retire from international football. But whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience—not 100%, but 1,000%—because I’ve given everything in football.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also dismissed suggestions that age has diminished his desire to compete.
“I don’t need it; I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it. You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals at this World Cup—I’m not doing too badly, right?”
Another historic World Cup for Ronaldo
Ronaldo has continued to add to his remarkable list of records during the tournament.
His two-goal performance against the Uzbekistan national football team made him the first footballer to score in six different FIFA World Cup editions, having previously found the net in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.
He also scored from the penalty spot in Portugal’s victory over the Croatia national football team, registering the first World Cup knockout-stage goal of his career.
Ronaldo described the 2026 tournament as the most memorable World Cup of his career, praising supporters for creating an unforgettable atmosphere while also thanking the media, saying criticism over recent years had helped make him mentally stronger.
Portugal eye quarter-final place
Portugal now face one of their toughest tests of the tournament against Spain, with Ronaldo hoping to extend his final World Cup journey.
The veteran captain will lead his side into the Round of 16 determined to keep alive his dream of ending his World Cup career with the sport’s biggest prize.
While Portugal is also preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Morocco, Ronaldo said his full attention remains on helping his country progress further in what will be the last World Cup campaign of his illustrious career.