Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to surprise everyone by announcing his retirement after the 2026 World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister recently shared with reporters that the 2026 World Cup will be the legendary player’s last time playing for Portugal on the international stage.
Tonight, Ronaldo will start in Portugal’s Round of 32 World Cup match against Croatia, even though there were rumors he might be benched against Luka Modric’s team.
Last month, Ronaldo scored his ninth and tenth World Cup goals during a big 5-0 win over Uzbekistan in the group stage.
His longtime rival, Lionel Messi, is currently leading the Golden Boot race and has become the World Cup’s highest scorer ever.
Even though Ronaldo had a quiet game in the 0-0 draw against Colombia, which cost Portugal the top spot in their group, he’s still starting tonight. This match could be his last for Portugal if Croatia wins.
Before the game, Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, told Sport TV that the 2026 World Cup will be her brother’s final international tournament.
“Enjoy it while it lasts,” she said. “The info I have is that this is his last dance. I don’t think he’ll say goodbye today, but it’s coming soon.”
She added, “It will be hard to find another player after 200 goals for Portugal.”
Katia also praised Ronaldo’s amazing career and replied to fans who criticize him.
“For those who truly love football, they have to respect Ronaldo. He has been a star for over 20 years. Look where we come from and what our family has been through,” she said, referring to their tough upbringing.
She finished by saying, “Do you think all the criticism will bring us down? Never!”
If tonight is Ronaldo’s last game for Portugal, he could make history by scoring his first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match. Surprisingly, he’s never scored in this stage despite playing eight times since 2006.
Ronaldo recently became Portugal’s top World Cup scorer, passing Eusebio, who scored 9 goals in 1966.
In the European Championships, Ronaldo will finish with 12 goals over 20 years, from 2004 to 2024.
In the Nations League, he’ll end with 15 goals, including one in Portugal’s recent win against Spain.
No matter what happens, Ronaldo’s career with Portugal has been truly unforgettable!