By Adenike Lawal
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark his final appearance on the global stage, saying he plans to retire within the next “one or two years.”
Speaking via video call at a Saudi tourism and investment summit, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward said, “I feel great and I’m still scoring goals, but soon probably means one or two years. Definitely, the next World Cup will be my last.”
Ronaldo, who has scored over 950 career goals and holds the men’s international scoring record with 143 goals, said he is proud of his achievements and now wants to focus on his family and enjoying the present.
“I’ve given everything to football for 25 years. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. Now it’s time to live in the moment,” he said.
He also spoke about supporting his son, Cristiano Jr., who plays for Portugal’s U-16 team, saying, “If he ends up better than me, amazing, but there’s no pressure. I just want him to be happy.”
