Speculation over! Cristiano Ronaldo finally makes decision on last World Cup

The 41-year-old superstar confirmed during a recent press conference that the 2026 World Cup will be his last major international tournament.

“Yes, this is my last World Cup," the Portugal captain said.

"I thank God for my life. If I win, I will always be Cristiano. If I don’t win, I WILL ALWAYS BE CRISTIANO.”

Ronaldo’s words bring clarity to months of debate about whether he would play at the 2030 World Cup.

At 41, he is appearing in his sixth World Cup, a record for a male player, and has been a central figure for Portugal despite facing criticism for some performances.

The shock announcement comes as Portugal prepare for a massive showdown against Spain in the Round of 16.

The Portuguese advanced to this stage by beating Croatia 2-1, a game that needed a 94th-minute winner from Gonçalo Ramos.

Ronaldo has scored three goals at this World Cup and will be desperate to leave the national team on a high note.

CR7’s words do not necessarily mean he will retire from the national team after the tournament, but there is now a strong chance that may be the case.

The Al Nassr man remains on course to hit 1,000 career goals (he currently sits on 976), which suggests he will certainly play at least another season at club level.