Cristiano Ronaldo has made a decision on his international future with Portugal following the World Cup.

The Portuguese star confirmed on Thursday that he intends to keep representing his country despite continued speculation about his potential retirement.

“I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want,” said Ronaldo. “I think I can give the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football. This is a new generation, a young generation. But for me, the basic point and the most important point is to be able to score goals inside the pitch and help the team to win games.”

"I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want."

Cristiano Ronaldo says he's not done playing international football and will continue to play for Portugal after considering retirement.

(via @BeanymanSports)pic.twitter.com/ynjqzotX8P

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 24, 2026

Article Continues Below

The announcement comes after reports suggested the 2026 World Cup would be Ronaldo's final appearance for Portugal. Following the team's Round of 32 win, however, Ronaldo said he would wait until after the tournament before deciding what comes next.

Ronaldo's comments also come after he told Vogue's Gaby Wood last month that “this is probably my last year of football,” without specifying exactly when he would retire. Although he plans to continue representing Portugal, another World Cup appears unlikely based on his age. Ronaldo would be 45 when the 2030 tournament arrives.

While Ronaldo intends to continue with Portugal, his longtime rival Lionel Messi has already confirmed the end of his Argentina career. The 39-year-old announced his international retirement on Aug. 31. He is scheduled to make his final appearance for the national team against Benin on Oct. 6 at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental.

Argentina's federation president Claudio Tapia said the match would be dedicated to Messi. Before that farewell, Argentina will face Bolivia on Sept. 30 and Burkina Faso on Oct. 3 during the international break.