Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez believes Cristiano Ronaldo can continue playing at the highest level for many more years and has not ruled out the possibility of seeing him at the 2030 World Cup.
Ronaldo is 41 years old at this year’s tournament. If he plays in 2030, he will be 45. Portugal will co host that World Cup alongside Spain and Morocco.
When asked whether Ronaldo could still feature in 2030, Martinez gave a confident answer.
“Nobody should doubt it,” Martinez said. “He has earned it.”
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in August 2003 at the age of 18. Since then, he has become the most decorated player in the country’s history.
The forward holds Portugal’s appearance record with 226 caps. That is 80 more than former midfielder Joao Moutinho. Ronaldo is also the nation’s all time leading scorer with 143 goals. His tally is 96 goals clear of Pauleta.
Over the years, Ronaldo has played a major role in some of Portugal’s biggest achievements. He helped the team win Euro 2016 and guided them to fourth place at the 2006 World Cup. That remains Portugal’s best World Cup finish since 1966.
At the 2022 World Cup, Ronaldo scored a penalty against Ghana and became the first player to score in five different World Cups.
Ronaldo and Argentina captain Lionel Messi are now on track to become the first footballers to appear in six World Cups.
Martinez praised Ronaldo’s attitude and dedication. He said the veteran forward continues to show a level of motivation rarely seen in elite sport.
“I have worked with many players who won a Champions League or a Ballon d’Or, and the next day they lose motivation. What we see with Ronaldo shows a different mentality.”
“I think having that objective allows you to endure. There is a genetic aspect and the work he does, he uses everything to help his body, and his mentality.”
Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign on June 17 against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Houston. As Ronaldo prepares for another major tournament, his coach believes age is not a barrier to extending one of football’s greatest careers.
