In a landmark moment for football longevity, Cristiano Ronaldo has become the oldest outfield player to start a FIFA World Cup match.
Portugal are up against DR Congo in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener on Wednesday (June 17) and Ronaldo has etched his name in the record book as he starts the match.
At 41 years and 132 days old, the Portuguese captain led his nation onto the pitch for their Group K opener against DR Congo on Wednesday.
This appearance marks his record sixth World Cup tournament, a feat he shares with Lionel Messi. Ronaldo's international career, which began in 2003, continues to defy expectations. The Al Nassr star has so far netted 8 goals in the World Cups, as his very first appearance was in the 2006 edition of the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo 2nd Oldest Outfield Player in World Cup
Ronaldo ranks as the second-oldest outfield player in World Cup history, behind only Cameroon's Roger Milla, who featured at 42 in 1994. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains Portugal's talisman, captaining a talented squad featuring Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Joao Cancelo. Despite questions about his waning pace, Ronaldo's fitness, professionalism, and goal-scoring pedigree keep him central to Roberto MartÍnez's plans.
Portugal, ranked fifth in the world, enters the tournament as strong contenders. Ronaldo has scored in five previous World Cups and eyes a maiden title in what many believe is his final dance on the global stage. A win against DR Congo would set a positive tone in a group that also includes Uzbekistan and Colombia.
