With the Indian football’s future looking bleak, the international footballing scenario also is one to ponder upon with legends like Lionel Messi and Cristinao Ronaldo playing in the final years. However,
both the players have time and again refuted reports of their final tournaments, Portuguese international and one of the greats of the game, Cristiano Ronaldo recently confirmed his retirement date.
Speaking at an event online in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, November 11, Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance as he approaches the end of his illustrious career. It is to be noted that the forward, who has netted over 950 goals, began his professional journey at Sporting CP in 2002 and recently extended his stay with his Saudi club Al Nassr until 2027.
Definitely yes: Cristiano Ronaldo confirms FIFA World Cup 2026 as his final tournament; reveals post-retirement plans
Whn asked about his farewell from World Cups, the Portuguese international replied, “Well, the soon for me, I mean, is in 10 years. So, the people realise that when I say soon, it’s in six months, one year. No, I’m joking.” He then added, “As I tell you before, I feel very good in this moment. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp. I enjoy my game and the national team and all my stuff. But of course, let’s be honest, when I mean soon, it’s probably one, two years I’m still at the game.”
When further inquired about the upcoming FIFA World Cup being his last, he revealed, “definitely, yes, because it’s I will be 41 years old and I think it we’ll be, the moments and in the big competition that to - I don’t know yet.” “As I told you before, I’m enjoying the moments. But when I mean soon, it’s really soon because I gave everything in football. I’m in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything, I have many records in different scenarios - in clubs, national team. I’m really proud, so let’s enjoy the moment and enjoy every bit of it,” he concluded.
Notably, the World Cup trophy is the only notable absentee from Ronaldo’s illustrious cabinet. As of now Portugal are on the verge of qualifying for next year’s World Cup and a win against Republic of Ireland on Thursday, November 13 will secure them their berth for the prestigious event.
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