Cristiano Ronalda Tells CNN World Cup

Overview

One of the greatest football players of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo, has made a clear statement about his future in the game. He just announced in an interview with CNN that the FIFA World Cup in 2026 will be his final tournament appearance.

With this declaration, an incredible worldwide career spanning more than 20 years comes to an end.

In the discussion that follows, we will address:

* The circumstances and specifics of his declaration

* Given Ronaldo's age and current situation, it makes plausible that 2026 would be his final World Cup.

* His professional accomplishments and records that highlight the importance of this occasion

* What this implies for his future with the national team and at the club level

The Declaration: "Yes, without a doubt"

CNN anchor Becky Anderson asked Ronaldo over a live video hookup from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he was attending a tourism and investment event, if the 2026 World Cup will be his final one. Ronaldo gave a brief response:

* “Definitely, yes. I will be 41 years old, and I think it will be the moment in the big competition.”

In addition, he clarified his earlier statement regarding his impending retirement:

* “Let’s be honest, when I mean soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be at the game.”

Ronaldo has essentially made 2026 his last major international event milestone rather than just his last World Cup.

Why 2026 Makes Sense in Terms of Age and Physicality

Early in 2026, Ronaldo will turn 41. Ronaldo is still playing at a top level both domestically and internationally at a time when the majority of professional football players have long ago retired, particularly from international competition. However, longevity in football is earned, and it makes sense to plan an exit due to the physical demands of a tournament like the World Cup, which include rigorous matches, travel, and media duties.

A World Cup Sixth?

Ronaldo hopes to play in his sixth World Cup in a row (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022). He alluded to that significant occasion in his CNN interview when he stated, "the big competition..." I'll be forty-one years old.

Documents and Legacy

Ronaldo had already surpassed 950 career goals for club and country at the time of the announcement, setting incredible numerical records.

In addition, he leads all men's international goal scorers in history. Because he has already left a legacy, these records relieve him of some of the pressure to continue playing in order to increase his stats.

The Only Significant Trophy Not Found

The World Cup trophy itself is still elusive despite the innumerable trophies he has won both at the club and international levels (such as with the Portugal national team). In previous interviews, Ronaldo stated that winning the World Cup is a goal. He will have one final chance to win the ultimate trophy when his World Cup tenure ends in 2026, which is a fitting way to conclude his international career.

Career Highlights & Achievements

* It is helpful to go over some of the most notable aspects of his career in order to fully understand the significance of his 2026 decision:

* He is the men's record holder with 143 international goals.

* With 2026 approaching, he might become the first player to score in six World Cups, having already scored in five.

* He has scored over 950 goals for both his club and his country, which is an incredible accomplishment at any level.

In addition to his accomplishments, he has won five Ballon d'Or awards, won championships for several leagues and teams, and gained international recognition for his work ethic and professionalism.

Plans for the Future: What Comes Next?

Club Career

Ronaldo has not made it clear that he will instantly stop playing football, even though 2026 might be his last World Cup. He claims in multiple interviews that he is still physically capable and enjoys the game:

"I'm feeling great right now. I'm still quick and sharp, and I score goals. I'm having fun playing for the national team.

He will at least continue to play club football after the World Cup because he has extended his contract with Al Nassr until 2027. It remains to be seen if he will continue to compete at the highest level or progressively move into a smaller role.

Career Abroad (Portugal)

Ronaldo will probably concentrate on other facets of his national team role now that his World Cup chapter is coming to an end, such as making fewer international appearances, mentoring younger players, transferring the torch to them, or limiting his participation to certain competitions. It's unclear if he will play in any more international matches after the 2026 World Cup, which is probably his final appearance in that competition.

Legacy & Off-Field

Ronaldo's remarks regarding this choice are also influenced by his thoughts on family and legacy. He mentioned his son, Cristiano Jr., who plays for Portugal's Under-16 team, in the CNN article, saying:

"I hope my children will surpass me... I will never be envious of him. I don't want to put more strain on you.
In addition to being a goal machine, Ronaldo is now portraying himself as a father and role model. He will be able to devote time to other endeavors, like as philanthropy, business, family, and influencing the next generation, after leaving elite international football.

His Choice's Effects on Portugal

For many years, Ronaldo—possibly the most influential and statistically significant Portuguese football player in history—has served as the face of Portuguese football. His choice to retire from the World Cup in 2026 marks a change of leadership and a new era for the national squad. Even though Portugal's team is formidable, losing a player like Ronaldo would inevitably change the dynamics of marketing, leadership, and expectations.

For Football Fans and the World Cup

Football fans throughout the world have grown up with Ronaldo as a regular participant in big competitions, frequently with his adversary Lionel Messi. Following the declaration that 2026 will be his final World Cup, one of the most recognizable customs

Because of His Legacy

Ronaldo's choice to choose the moment rather than be coerced into it might be viewed as graceful and appropriate for his career. The idea that he is still in charge of his own fate is strengthened by his decision to retire from the World Cup on his own terms as opposed to being dropped or physically unable to compete. Additionally, it enables him to safeguard his reputation, brand, and memories of his last years.

One thing, though, will never go away: he never won the World Cup. Some could contend that the World Cup is the only prize he lacks for a player of his caliber. He offers himself one final chance by declaring 2026 to be his last, after which he stops.

Synopsis and Conclusion

In conclusion:

* In a CNN interview, Cristiano Ronaldo stated that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final World Cup.
* In the tournament year, he will be 41 years old, and he believes that this is the ideal time to end his World Cup voyage.

* In terms of retirement, "soon" refers to "one or two years," he clarified.

* Over 950 goals, 143 international goals (the men's record), goals in five World Cups, and other noteworthy accomplishments are already part of his career.

* His choice has far-reaching effects on the future of Portugal's national team, the media and supporters who have followed his career for a long time, and his legacy as one of the greatest football players.