Ronaldo reveals he considered Portugal retirement after World Cup exit
By Joel Masibo, September 24, 2026Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that he briefly considered ending his international career following Portugal’s elimination from the World Cup 2026.
The 41-year-old forward made the revelation ahead of Portugal’s Nations League meeting with Wales on Thursday, September 24, 2026, a match in which coach Jorge Jesus confirmed Ronaldo would start.
Ronaldo was asked whether he had contemplated stepping away from the national team after Portugal’s last-16 defeat by Spain in July.
“Yes, I did. Of course, I’m always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also.”
The Portugal captain said he discussed his future with both the country’s president and Jesus before deciding to continue representing his nation.
“I had a conversation with our president, with our coach,” he said of Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr before guiding them to the Saudi league title in May.
Decision to remain with Portugal
Ronaldo explained that his decision to remain with Portugal was influenced by his belief that he can still contribute to the team’s ambitions.
“I still believe that I’m able to help the national team to reach what they want, and will finish when I feel like I’m not doing anything here.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has already played a major role in Portugal’s recent success, having captained the side to the Nations League trophy in 2025.
He is also approaching the landmark of 1,000 goals in his professional career.
“This is a new young generation,” he said. “But for me the basic point is to be able on the pitch to score the goals and to help the team win games.”
Ronaldo also acknowledged that his continued involvement with Portugal remains a source of debate among some sections of the country’s media.
“I feel the Portuguese fans like me, but I do understand that some TV channels want to criticize me,” he said. “They are dying for me not to come to the national team any more, but I can still move away from it.
“Anyway, I am used to it. For over 20 years I have been doing this, but my memories are with people who love me. I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that. Even when I am retired… in 10 years,” Ronaldo said, smiling.
Despite having considered retirement, Ronaldo’s immediate focus remains on Portugal as he continues to contribute to a squad that is undergoing a generational transition.