Brazilian Ronaldo Says Cristiano Ronaldo's Body Can't Keep Up at World Cup Level

Brazilian football legend Ronaldo expressed a clear opinion on Cristiano Ronaldo's future following Portugal's 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2022 World Cup Round of 16. Speaking on Friday, he stated that at 41 years old, Cristiano's body no longer allows him to compete at the highest level of the World Cup. "The body tells you that you can't go on anymore," Ronaldo said, adding that both Cristiano and Neymar have reached a point where their physical limits are a major challenge. He noted that while Cristiano might still perform well in the Saudi league, the demands of the World Cup are much tougher, emphasizing that passion alone cannot overcome physical decline.

Ronaldo compared this to his own experience, saying, "I don't play today because my mind still works but my body can't keep up." Cristiano Ronaldo's last World Cup appearance ended with Portugal's elimination by Spain. Despite this, he has not announced retirement from the national team and could still participate in Euro 2028. Cristiano finished the tournament with three goals, including two against Uzbekistan and one against Croatia, while continuing to pursue his career goal of reaching 1,000 professional goals.