GUWAHATI: Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final World Cup of his illustrious career, saying he wants to cherish every moment of the tournament while hoping Portugal's campaign does not end in the Round of 16 against Spain.
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Speaking to reporters on the eve of Portugal's knockout clash at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, the Portugal captain ended speculation surrounding his future on football's biggest stage, revealing that this edition of the World Cup would be his last.
"It will be my last World Cup," Ronaldo said. "Hopefully tomorrow won't be my last match."
The 41-year-old said his focus remains on enjoying the tournament and helping Portugal advance further rather than dwelling on retirement.
"To enjoy it as much as possible because it is the last World Cup. It will be my last World Cup. And to enjoy each day," he added.
Ronaldo played a crucial role in Portugal's Round of 32 victory over Croatia last week, scoring from the penalty spot before Gonçalo Ramos headed home an extra-time winner to send Portugal into the last 16.
The veteran forward also expressed frustration over repeated questions regarding his retirement, insisting that Portugal's progress in the tournament mattered far more than discussions about his future.
"You always ask the same question, whether this is the last one. We'll see. I don't want to draw attention to that; it isn't important. What's important is whether we go through," he said.
Lightening the mood, Ronaldo joked that if Portugal advanced, reporters would have another chance to question him.
"That way you can keep killing me a little more," he said with a smile. "Trying to kill me."
Earlier in the media interaction, Ronaldo had also quipped when asked if he feared playing what could be his final World Cup match.
"You really want me not to come back anymore, don't you? You don't want to see me here anymore," he said, before reiterating that whenever his career ends, he will leave the game with no regrets.
Portugal will take on Spain in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas on Tuesday.
