Cristiano Ronaldo to Retire from Portugal National Team After 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to retire from the Portugal national team following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to his sister, Katia Aveiro. Speaking ahead of Portugal's knockout match against Croatia, Aveiro described the tournament as Ronaldo's "last dance" with the national squad, emphasizing that he will leave the pitch with his head held high. She stated, "From what I know, this is the end. He will retire from the national team after the tournament. People who love football love him; he has dominated for 20 years. He is full of confidence, but this is the end."

Ronaldo is preparing to make his 232nd appearance for Portugal, having scored 145 goals, the highest tally ever for his country. The Manchester United and Real Madrid legend has won the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League twice, scoring three goals in the latter tournament. In the current World Cup, Ronaldo has netted two goals during the group stage but has yet to score in the knockout rounds. Notably, he is the first player to score in six different World Cups, marking a historic achievement in international football.

As the knockout stages unfold, Ronaldo's impending retirement marks the end of an era for Portuguese football and the global game. His final matches in the 2026 World Cup will be closely watched by fans worldwide, celebrating a career that has spanned over two decades at the highest level.