At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to shine on the grandest stages of football, adding to his long list of honours while striving to deliver Portugal their long-awaited World Cup triumph.

Ronaldo’s international record remains unmatched, as he holds the title of the highest-scoring male footballer in international history, having netted 145 goals for Roberto Martinez’s Portugal side during his illustrious career.

As the Selecao step into the knockout rounds, questions resurface about when the legendary forward might finally decide to conclude a career that has spanned nearly twenty-five years and redefined footballing greatness.

Just before Ronaldo’s much-anticipated clash with his former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric at Toronto Stadium, speculation intensified over his possible retirement from international football.

Adding to the intrigue, Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, hinted before the crucial encounter that Portugal’s potential exit from the tournament could mark the end of her brother’s remarkable international journey.

Speaking to Portuguese broadcaster Sport TV, the pop star stated, “From the information I have, from a reliable source, I believe that this is the last dance, so let’s enjoy it. I believe it’s not today that they’ll say goodbye, but it’s coming soon. I strongly believe this is the farewell. So enjoy it a lot because it will be difficult to find someone after 200 goals. I’m talking about the Portuguese national team.”

Ronaldo stands among a select group of only three players in football history to have featured in six World Cup tournaments, underlining his extraordinary longevity and consistency at the highest level of the sport.

If confirmed, his international retirement would arrive just a year before his current contract with the Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr is due to expire.

In a November 2025 interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Ronaldo had already hinted that the end of his playing days might be near, admitting that stepping away from football would be an emotional moment for him. “When the time comes, I will cry,” he confessed, acknowledging the deep bond he shares with the game that made him a global icon.