Cristiano Ronaldo could be playing his final World Cup game in tonight's Round of 32 meeting between Portugal and Croatia.
The legendary forward's sister, Katia Aveiro, has dropped a massive bombshell about the 41-year-old's plans once his World Cup campaign ends. He is captaining Portugal and looking to finally win the one trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career.
Ronaldo remains a starter for his nation and has played every minute of his team's tournament thus far. He scored a brace in a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan amid criticism over his starting role in Roberto Martinez's frontline.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Sister Drops Retirement Bombshell
There had been an expectation that this would be Ronaldo's last World Cup campaign given his age. Some speculate that he may be enticed to continue playing international football until 2030 because the tournament is co-hosted by Portugal .
Ronaldo's sister has claimed that the Al-Nassr striker will be closing the book on his international career. Aveiro told Portuguese outlet SPORT TV : "We have to enjoy these moments. It’s the last dance for two players, both for Croatia and for Portugal. The most important thing is to enjoy these 20-odd years that we’ve lived, won, and come so far."
Aveiro added when asked about seeing him potentially captain his nation at Euro 2028:
"From the information I have, they can say goodbye. Enjoy it while it lasts. It’s not today that they’re saying goodbye, but it’s soon. I believe this is their farewell."
Ronaldo is the greatest goalscorer in football history and is Portugal's all-time top goalscorer. He has bagged 145 goals in 231 games for his country and won his first major trophy, the European Championship, back in 2016.
The former Manchester United star has yet to win the World Cup and watched longtime rival Lionel Messi lift the trophy in 2022. The closest he has come to doing so was in 2006 when his nation reached the semi-finals.
Ronaldo on Retiring From Football
Should Ronaldo announce his retirement from international football, his sole focus will be on club football with Al-Nassr. The Portuguese hero signed a record-breaking new two-year contract with the Saudi giants in June 2025.
The Real Madrid icon previously vowed to continue playing football until he reaches 1000 goals. He said back in June:
"It's hard to continue playing, but I am motivated. My passion is high, and I want to continue. It doesn't matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe."
Ronaldo currently sits on 969 goals for club and country, which could mean he'll look to use his last season to try and reach the 1000 milestone. He has enjoyed an incredible career, which includes winning five Champions League trophies and rivalling Messi for the Ballon d'Or and in El Clásico.
The American streamer wants to attend Portugal vs Croatia.
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