Ronaldo at 41: «I Will Tell the World» Before Retiring with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo does not know when he will wear Portugal’s shirt for the last time — and he accepts it with full confidence. The Al-Nassr forward, 41, with 233 international caps, held a press conference last Wednesday during Portugal’s squad gathering and sidestepped questions about his international retirement while cracking jokes at journalists.

When asked about a possible retirement date, Ronaldo answered frankly: «I would like to answer, but I cannot because I don’t know. I learned something after I turned thirty: I live the moment, I don’t think about tomorrow.» He then added with his characteristic humor: «Warn the Portuguese in advance? Why only the Portuguese? I will tell the world, I am global, I don’t belong only to the Portuguese.”

These remarks came as his fierce rival Lionel Messi announced he would end his international career after the 2026 World Cup. Ronaldo, however, has no intention of setting a timeline. His stated goals are clear: reaching 1,000 goals in his career — he has scored 146 with the national team — and winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also wanted to clarify matters for those who might expect him to disappear quickly: «I know many of you are excited about the idea of me not coming. I know that, I felt it in the way you asked your questions. Not all of you, but at least half of you. But I’m used to it.”

His presence at this gathering is largely due to Jorge Jesus, Portugal’s new coach, with whom he worked in Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo wanted to emphasize the role he intends to play, whether as a starter or not: «My experience, after all the years I’ve spent here. I’m here to help, whether I play or not. I’m one among others. It has always been this way and it will remain so.”

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to write his story with the national team, unconcerned about predictions regarding the end of his career.