Portugal will be aiming to secure their ticket to the 2026 World Cup with another triumph over their Group F opponents Ireland this week in a game that looks like an easy three points on paper for Ronaldo’s side.
The Portugal forward, who has scored more than 950 goals for clubs and country after making his debut as a teenager at Sporting in 2002 will be looking forward to the World Cup next year across America, Canada and Mexico where he aims to lead his side to glory.
However, speaking at a tourism forum in Riyadh, Ronaldo was asked if the tournament would be his last and the legendary forward admitted that as ages catches up to him this will be his last.
“Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old (at the World Cup),” said Ronaldo, who is also the top scorer in history with 143 international goals.
“I gave everything for football. I’ve been in the game for the last 25 years. I did everything. I have many records in the different scenarios in the clubs and also in the national teams.
“I’m really proud. So let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”
Retirement won't come soon
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star recently told Piers Morgan that when he says he will retire soon, it does not mean at the end of this season.
“That means soon for me. People think that when I talk about retiring soon it means it will be in six months or a year. I'm just kidding!” He went on to say: “Let's be honest, when I say soon, it probably means another year or two.”
If Ronaldo does appear at next year’s competition, it would mark his record-extending sixth World Cup appearance. He spoke more on the phyical strain of playing past 40, something not many world class players ever achieve.
"When you reach a certain age, you start counting the months quickly. In football, I try to enjoy scoring goals. As you know, I'm 40 years old, I try to enjoy the moment and move forward. My body is in good shape, I think. As for my performance with the national team, I score goals and help the team. I want to win titles. This is my life.”