Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Portugal’s national football team. Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the final World Cup of his career but said he is not yet ready to decide whether he has played his last match for Portugal. The announcement came on Monday, July 6, following Portugal’s Round of 16 elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Arlington, Texas, after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. The 41-year-old said he wanted time to reflect with his family before making any decision about his international future, adding that he did not want an emotional reaction to overshadow Portugal’s campaign. Portugal exited the tournament after conceding a stoppage-time goal to Mikel Merino, handing Spain a 1-0 victory. Speaking after the match, Ronaldo expressed disappointment over the result but said he was leaving the World Cup with a “clear conscience” after giving his all. He praised his teammates and outgoing coach Roberto Martínez, highlighting Portugal’s achievements during his international career, including the 2016 European Championship and UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. Ronaldo emphasized that any decision regarding his future with the national team would be made only after careful consideration.
