Cristiano Ronaldo may yet play another World Cup with Portugal, his sister has hinted.
Ronaldo became the only player in history to have scored in five World Cups when he netted in Portugal’s opening game against Ghana, but the five-time Ballon d’Or later found himself on the bench and was in tears as Fernando Santos’ side were knocked out by Morocco on Saturday.
It was widely thought that, at the age of 37, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward would not feature again in the game’s grandest tournament, but his sibling has opened the door to the possibility that he will take part in the 2026 World Cup.
In an Instagram story, Katia Aveiro wrote: “41 is the prime of life.”
And yes, Ronaldo will be 41 by the time the 2026 World Cup – which will take place in USA, Canada and Mexico –comes around.
But given the drama off the pitch this time after Ronaldo was left out by Santos and his reduced role in the team, it remains to be seen whether he will be selected even if he does want to play the tournament in North America.