Ronaldo Spurred on by 1,000 Goals and Portugal Glory
Cristiano Ronaldo continues with Portugal after considering retirement, with another major trophy and 1,000 career goals in sight.
- Ronaldo says he contemplated ending his international career.
- He needs 21 more goals to reach the milestone.
- Ronaldo is included in the Nations League squad.
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he considered retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup but decided to continue playing because he believes he can still help Portugal achieve further success.
The 41-year-old forward confirmed during the summer that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament. However, he has since remained part of Portugal’s plans and has been named in Jorge Jesus’ 25-man squad for the Nations League campaign.
Portugal begin their Nations League campaign against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday, with Ronaldo set to make his 234th appearance for his country.
Chasing 1,000 career goals
Ronaldo is also motivated by a personal milestone, with the Al-Nassr forward needing 21 more goals to reach 1,000 senior career goals.
Ahead of the meeting with Craig Bellamy’s Wales side, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner admitted that retirement from international football had been on his mind following the World Cup.
Asked whether he had considered ending his Portugal career after the tournament, Ronaldo said:
“Yes, I did.”
Ronaldo, who made his Portugal debut in 2003, has continued to play a central role for the national team as he targets more international success alongside his pursuit of the historic 1,000-goal mark.
