Revealed: When Ronaldo might retire, and it’s not at the 2026 World Cup

05/12/2025 16:10:00 PANDATV

Despite Ronaldo’s claim that the 2026 World Cup will be his final competition, Nuno Gomes thinks the 2030 World Cup hosted at home might be the ideal send-off for the Portugal icon.

Cristiano Ronaldo has repeatedly emphasized that the 2026 World Cup in North America will mark the final World Cup of his career, as he approaches 41 years of age. However, former striker Nuno Gomes’ recent comments have sparked hope among fans for a more fitting conclusion: Ronaldo might extend his career by four more years to bid farewell at the 2030 World Cup – a tournament co-hosted by Portugal.

Ronaldo continues to maintain exceptional fitness even at 40 years old. His statistics post-30 years of age even surpass his own performance levels from his twenties. Nonetheless, he has clearly stated: “Definitely. I’m almost 41, and I believe the time will come.” This is considered confirmation that the 2026 World Cup will be his last appearance.

Nuno Gomes believes Ronaldo still has the fitness to play even at 45 years old

However, the 2030 World Cup being held in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco opens an emotional possibility. Nuno Gomes – who shared the field with Ronaldo 34 times for the national team – expressed an opinion that caught public attention. Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: “That’s a tough question. I think only he, or maybe not even he, knows the answer, because he keeps improving every year at this age.”

Gomes continued to praise his junior teammate: “I think he still has the health to compete. He is a truly professional player and a role model for the younger generation.” Yet, he also acknowledged the reality of time: “Of course, he is older now and has lost some abilities, like speed. But he’s still scoring goals, and in football, scoring is what matters most.”

Although CR7 confirmed the 2026 World Cup as his last, the 2030 World Cup on Portuguese soil presents an emotional scenario

According to Gomes, the decision to play until 2030 depends not only on Ronaldo but also on coach Roberto Martinez: “I think that will depend on the coach. But maybe I can say this could be his final World Cup. We know that in four years, there will be some matches. And perhaps this will be the chance to say goodbye at home.”

If Ronaldo plays in the 2030 World Cup, he will be 45 years old – surpassing the record for the oldest player ever to participate in a World Cup. Although this possibility is not confirmed, many believe his ambition to break historical milestones might make CR7 reconsider.

FIFA reduced his suspension, allowing him to be eligible from the opening match of the 2026 World Cup

Portugal has qualified for the 2026 World Cup, where FIFA has lessened Ronaldo’s suspension so he can participate from the first game. So far, he has played 22 matches and scored eight goals in World Cup tournaments, achievements comparable to many legends.

The future remains Ronaldo’s choice, but with Nuno Gomes’ heartfelt hints, hope for a home farewell at the 2030 World Cup is becoming a story followed by the entire football world.

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