Cristiano Ronaldo declares 2026 World Cup as his final tournament

ESPN2 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 7:00 PM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo declares 2026 World Cup as his final tournament
Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed at a press conference on July 5 that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last. Ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match against Spain, Ronaldo acknowledged his age and discussed retirement, emphasizing his commitment to the team. He noted the importance of enjoying this last tournament while highlighting Portugal's readiness to compete. Ronaldo has played in all four of Portugal's World Cup matches so far and remains focused on contributing to the team's success.

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By the Numbers
  • Ronaldo confirms 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament.
  • He discusses his commitment to Portugal ahead of the Spain match.
  • Portugal ranks seventh in the world as they advance to the knockout stage.
  • Ronaldo has scored three goals in the tournament so far.
Latest Updates
  • 9:31 PMESPNRonaldo: 'This will be my last World Cup'
  • 8:41 PMThe Guardian Sport‘They’ve tried to kill me for 23 years’: Cristiano Ronaldo says this World Cup will be his last
  • 7:45 PMYahoo SportsCristiano Ronaldo confirms this is his last World Cup, doesn't want to talk retirement
  • 7:29 PMYahoo Sports‘End Of an Era’ – Soccer World Reacts as Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms His Last FIFA World Cup Appearance
  • 7:00 PMYahoo Sports🚨 Cristiano Ronaldo confirms 2026 World Cup will be his last
What they're saying
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‘God has been generous to me,’ says 41-year-old Portugal face Spain in last 16 in Dallas on Monday Twenty-three years, 232 games, 146 goals and six World Cups later, at 41, this really could be the end, and Cristiano Ronaldo will depart at peace. The day before potentially the final match of his extraordinary international career, the truth that everyone knew but Portugal’s captain had tried not to actually express, eventually came out. “This will be my last World Cup; God willing tomorrow is not my last game,” he said. And if it is, well, it is. If he has to go without lifting the only trophy to resist him, so be it. “I’m not missing anything; God has been generous to me,” Ronaldo said. “I won’t be more Cristiano or less Cristiano if I win the World Cup or not.” Continue reading...

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There’s only one trophy that has eluded the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo throughout his career. He has never won the FIFA World Cup, but he has a chance to change that, starting with tomorrow’s clash against European champions Spain.

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has many fans watching and soaking up the talents of an aging generation, with names like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Luka Modric playing in what may be their last tou...

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