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Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister hints at international retirement after World Cup campaign
Arjun Pillai | July 3, 2026 3:38 PM CST

The sister of Manchester United icon Cristiano Ronaldo has offered a significant update regarding the veteran forward’s playing future.

Ronaldo has experienced a mixed run at the ongoing World Cup in North America. He struggled in Portugal’s opening fixture against DR Congo, which concluded in a 1-1 stalemate.

Supporters and media outlets criticised his performance, even suggesting that he was hampering the team’s attacking rhythm. However, the 41-year-old answered those doubts in trademark fashion by scoring a brilliant brace in Portugal’s next match, a commanding 5-0 win over Uzbekistan. One of his goals came through an assist from Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner followed that up with a quieter display in Portugal’s final group-stage encounter against Colombia.

Portugal will now face Croatia in the Round of 32 as they aim to secure a place in the last-16. Ronaldo continues to chase the one piece of silverware that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career — the World Cup trophy.

As the campaign progresses, Ronaldo’s sister Katia has revealed that this tournament is expected to be his final appearance on the international stage.

According to Katia, the Portuguese captain intends to retire from international football once Portugal’s World Cup journey concludes.

Speaking to Portuguese broadcaster SPORT TV, Katia said, “We must cherish these moments. It’s the last dance for two players — both for Croatia and for Portugal.”

She added, “The most important thing is to value these twenty-odd years we’ve lived, achieved victories, and come such a long way.”

When asked whether Ronaldo might lead Portugal at the Euro 2028 tournament, she replied, “From what I know, this is their farewell. Enjoy it while it lasts.”

“They’re not saying goodbye today, but the time is coming. I believe this is their farewell.”

Regardless of how this World Cup ends, Ronaldo’s legacy is already cemented. He remains Portugal’s all-time top scorer with 145 goals (as of now), a record that could stand for generations to come.


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