Did Cristiano Ronaldo play in his last World Cup?
Portugal advanced to the last 16 of the World Cup on Thursday with a 2-1 win over Croatia at Toronto Stadium. But as the team prepares to face Spain, questions are being raised over Cristiano Ronaldo’s international future.
Here’s everything we know about Ronaldo’s retirement plans:
Is Cristiano Ronaldo retiring?
(Photo by John Jacques/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo has made no decisions regarding the future of his international career following Portugal’s win over Croatia on Thursday.
“I don’t make reckless decisions,” Ronaldo said after Portugal’s win over Croatia on Thursday. “I will make a decision after the tournament, not now.”
At club level, Ronaldo has a contract with Saudi Professional League club Al-Nasr until June 2027.
Will Ronaldo play at the 2030 World Cup?
Ronaldo told Fabrizio Romano in June that he “wouldn’t rule out” participating in the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Spain, Morocco and his native Portugal. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez also advised his star striker to play in a record seventh World Cup.
“No one should doubt it,” Martinez told Cadena Ser radio. “He deserves it.”
How old will Ronaldo be at the 2030 World Cup?
(Photo by Chris Arjun/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Ronaldo has not yet confirmed whether he will participate in the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
If Ronaldo decides to take part, he will be 45 years old, and the tournament will be hosted by Portugal, Spain and Morocco. With Portugal co-hosting the tournament, it’s hard to imagine Cristiano Ronaldo not at least considering participating.
If he does, Ronaldo will be chasing history. Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary is currently the oldest player to ever take part in the FIFA World Cup, having played at 45 years old. Ronaldo would be exactly the same age.
Where will the 2030 FIFA World Cup be held?
The 2030 FIFA World Cup marks the 100th anniversary of the very first World Cup, which was held in Uruguay in 1930. FIFA announced that the event will span three continents and will take place in Morocco, Portugal and Spain.