Ronaldo puts end to retirement speculation following sister’s bombshell remark: 'Retirement not important now'

Cristiano Ronaldo dismissed speculation over his international retirement after his sister Katia Aveiro claimed that the 2026 World Cup would be his last dance. The Portuguese striker clarified that he will not make any decisions about his international future in the heat of the moment.

Ronaldo’s sister fueled speculation about his international retirement, claiming the veteran striker’s career is 'ending soon' and that the 2026 World Cup would be his 'last dance,' before Portugal’s round of 32 clash against Croatia.

Following the World Cup knockout match, the Portuguese footballer cleared the air on the situation.

'Retirement is not important now'

Speaking to reporters after the match, Ronaldo said he isn't focused on retirement decisions at the moment and wants to wait until after Portugal's World Cup campaign. The veteran footballer further emphasised that he no longer made decisions impulsively and would discuss his future with his family and make the appropriate decision.   

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"It is not important now. I will have time to talk about that after winning or losing the tournament; I will talk to my family, and then, I will make the most appropriate decision.

"I no longer make decisions in the heat of the moment; now everything is done calmly. All that matters to me at the moment is enjoying the present and helping the national team," Ronaldo said.

Portugal advances to round of 16

Ronaldo put up a sensational outing in the round of 32 match, scoring a goal from the penalty spot in the 67th minute, equalising Ivan Perisic's opener for Croatia. The Portuguese striker had found the back of the net minutes before he converted a penalty, but the VAR ruled it offside.

The 41-year-old scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal. He also became the oldest footballer to do so.

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Portugal finished with a 2-1 lead after substitute Goncalo Ramos headed in a goal at stoppage time, helping Portugal advance to the round of 16.

Portugal will now face Spain at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, July 7, at 12:30 PM IST.