Cristiano Ronaldo Shocks Football World with Major Retirement Revelation Before 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he anticipates retiring "in the near future" while confirming his intention to make the 2026 World Cup his final tournament participation.

The Portuguese star, who claimed European Championship glory in 2016, aims to secure the ultimate international prize in what would mark his sixth World Cup campaign. He currently shares the record of five tournament participations with seven other players but is poised to surpass them alongside his longtime rival Lionel Messi in the upcoming competition.

Reaching a seventh World Cup is not part of Ronaldo's plans, as he told CNN that the 2026 edition will "certainly" be his final one.

Furthermore, Ronaldo revealed he doesn't anticipate continuing his playing career until 2030, suggesting his retirement will occur within the next couple of years.

"I'm feeling excellent right now, I'm finding the net, I remain fast and alert, I'm enjoying my football with both the national squad and Al Nassr, but naturally, to be frank, when I say soon... likely one or two years I'll continue playing.

"I'm uncertain at this point, but when I mention soon, it truly is soon. I've dedicated everything to football. I've competed for 25 years. I've accomplished everything, I hold numerous records across different contexts with clubs and national teams. I'm genuinely proud, so let's savor this time, embrace the present."

Ronaldo: No Expectations for Cristiano Jr.

Ronaldo's statements follow his son, Cristiano Jr., netting his debut goal for Portugal's Under-16 team.

The 15-year-old faces considerable expectations if he wishes to emulate his father's career, and although Ronaldo expressed his desire to see his son surpass his achievements, he emphasized that Cristiano Jr. will receive the freedom necessary to pursue whatever direction he desires.

"As humans, we don't want anyone surpassing us," Ronaldo explained. "But from my perspective, I hope my children will outdo me, I will never feel envious of him, believe me.

"As his father, I'm present to support him in becoming whatever he aspires to be."