Cristiano Ronaldo, a forward for Al Nassr, has acknowledged that his family frequently encourages him to retire, but the Portuguese sensation maintains that he still has the will to play and support his team and nation.
Cristiano Ronaldo revealed this on Monday night at the Portugal Football Globes ceremony in Lisbon, where he was honored for his exceptional career with the national team and given the Prestígio Award.
Speaking passionately about his lengthy journey with Portugal and the pride he still feels wearing the national colors, the 40-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner addressed during the ceremony.
“I have 22 years of experience with the national squad. In his acceptance speech, Ronaldo stated, “That alone speaks a lot about the passion I have for wearing this shirt, for winning trophies, for playing for Portugal.”
“I frequently state that if I could, I would only play soccer for the national team and not for any club, as that is the highest goal a football player can accomplish.”
Ronaldo, who is still Portugal’s all-time top scorer with over 900 goals in his career, showed no signs of slowing down. Speaking to continuing retirement discussions, he grinned and acknowledged that his family believes he has done enough.
“I’m still passionate about this. I don’t need to score 1,000 goals because I’ve already scored over 900, according to my family, so it’s time to stop,” he remarked.
But I don’t see it that way. I continue to help my club and my country, and I continue to produce quality work. Why not end now? I’m confident that because I gave it my all, I’ll leave feeling satisfied. Right now, it’s all about savoring the now.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward claimed that he no longer strives for records and that instead, he now focuses on living in the present.
He said, “To be honest, I don’t see it as an obsession anymore.” We learn to think differently as we become older. I believe that since circumstances might change suddenly, it’s best to live each day as it comes. In this game, long-term planning is not possible.
Ronaldo also discussed Portugal’s efforts to earn a spot in the 2026 World Cup. “Winning the next two games will guarantee our spot at the World Cup,” he stated.
Portugal will host Hungary three days after playing Ireland this Saturday, and Ronaldo is anticipated to skipper the team once more.
