Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the final World Cup of his legendary career, but the Portugal captain says he will take time before deciding whether he has played his last international match.
Portugal’s World Cup journey came to a painful end after a dramatic 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, with Mikel Merino scoring a stoppage-time winner in Dallas. The result not only ended Portugal’s hopes of lifting the coveted trophy but also marked the conclusion of Roberto Martinez‘s tenure as national team manager.
For Ronaldo, it was an emotional night.
The 41-year-old made his 223rd appearance for Portugal, closing the chapter on an extraordinary World Cup journey that spanned two decades. While he confirmed he would not reverse his earlier decision that this would be his final World Cup, he stopped short of announcing his retirement from international football.
“I am sad to leave like this, but I have given everything—always my best. I leave with a clear conscience,” Ronaldo told reporters after the match.
“It was my last World Cup, yes. But regarding the rest, there will be time to think, to be with my family, and not make decisions in the heat of the moment.”
Despite never winning football’s biggest prize, Ronaldo reflected proudly on one of the greatest international careers the game has ever witnessed.
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The Portuguese superstar helped his nation secure its first-ever major international trophy at UEFA Euro 2016, before adding two UEFA Nations League titles to his collection.
I won three titles with Portugal.
Before Cristiano, Portugal had never won a major trophy,” Ronaldo said.
“The best title I won with the national team was Euro 2016. For me, it has the same value as winning the World Cup. I leave here with a clear conscience. Tomorrow is another day, and life goes on.”
Throughout the tournament, Ronaldo’s role remained one of the biggest talking points, with critics questioning whether the veteran striker should continue leading Portugal’s attack. However, manager Roberto Martinez consistently backed his captain.
- Following Portugal’s elimination,
- Martinez officially confirmed that the match against Spain was his final game in charge after three and a half years with the national team.
“It’s true that this is my last game for Portugal,” Martinez said.
“I want to thank the Portuguese people, the federation, my coaching staff, and especially the players. They showed incredible commitment and talent. I leave with memories that will stay with me forever.”
Martinez also reserved special praise for Ronaldo, calling him one of football’s greatest ambassadors.
“He has been an exemplary captain,” Martinez said.
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“When I arrived, there were many questions about his place in the team, but he answered them through his leadership, professionalism, and commitment. He is not only a goalscorer but also a role model. There aren’t many Ronaldos in football.”
As Portugal begins a new era following both its World Cup exit and managerial change
Ronaldo’s international future remains uncertain. Whether the football icon wears the Portugal shirt again is a decision that, as he insists, will come only after careful reflection—not in the emotions of defeat.
