In the realm of football, few names resonate as profoundly as Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar, known for his unparalleled skills and determination, has once again made headlines, this time for his unwavering ambition to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This aspiration comes as a surprise to many, especially considering Ronaldo's age and his emotional farewell to the World Cup dream after Portugal's exit from the 2022 Qatar event.
Ronaldo, currently 38, would be over forty by the time the 2026 World Cup kicks off. Yet, age seems to be just a number for this football legend. After his recent move to the Saudi Pro League side, Al-Nassr, in January, Ronaldo is reportedly contemplating postponing his retirement. Sources suggest that he is in discussions with Al-Nassr about potentially extending his contract to 2027, ensuring his availability for what might be his sixth World Cup appearance.
The footballer's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Ronaldo first graced the World Cup stage in Germany in 2006. Since then, he has not only become the team captain for Portugal but has also etched his name as one of the most iconic national team players. While he has tasted victory in the Nations League and the European Championships, the World Cup trophy has remained elusive.
Despite this, Ronaldo's performance remains commendable. Since joining Al-Nassr, he has made a significant impact, showcasing his scoring prowess. In the current season alone, Ronaldo has netted ten goals and provided five assists in just eight matches. His consistent performance underscores his belief in his ability to compete at the highest level, making him a contender for World Cup selection.
The Saudi Pro League, once viewed as a retirement destination for fading stars, is undergoing a transformation. With the arrival of top European players, including the likes of Jordan Henderson, Neymar Jr., and Karim Benzema, the league's competitive nature is intensifying. Ronaldo's decision to continue playing in such a dynamic environment further emphasizes his commitment to the sport and his World Cup aspirations.
Ronaldo's World Cup dream seemed to have reached its conclusion following Portugal's departure from the Qatar World Cup. In a heartfelt social media post, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country in five World Cup tournaments over 16 years. He hinted at not participating in another World Cup, leading many to anticipate his international retirement post-Euro 2024. However, recent developments suggest that Ronaldo might remain on international duty until at least 2026.
Ronaldo's World Cup journey has seen its highs and lows, with Portugal's best finish being a semi-final exit in 2006. His dedication to the sport is evident in his record-breaking 201 international caps, during which he has scored an impressive 123 goals. As he continues to play, these numbers are bound to rise.
The football world watched in awe as Ronaldo's long-time rival, Lionel Messi, clinched the World Cup with Argentina last year. While Ronaldo has refrained from indulging in the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) debate against Messi, there's no denying that securing a World Cup victory remains a dream for him and his legion of fans. As Ronaldo once remarked, "In the history books, all other records will be there. But obviously, a World Cup on the shelf wouldn't be bad. It would be a dream."
