LISBON: Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name into sporting history after being named in Portugal’s squad for what will be a record sixth FIFA World Cup appearance.
The 41-year-old forward continues to defy age and expectations, extending one of the most remarkable international careers football has ever witnessed. Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez included Ronaldo in the preliminary squad for next month’s World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by United States, Mexico and Canada.
FIFA is expected to officially confirm the final squad lists on June 2, but Ronaldo’s inclusion has already sparked excitement among football fans around the world.
Ronaldo first played on football’s grandest stage during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, where Portugal reached the semi-finals for the first time in four decades. The team eventually lost to France in the semi-final before finishing fourth after another defeat against Germany.
Across his World Cup journey, Ronaldo has featured in 22 matches and scored eight goals, placing him among the tournament’s all-time elite performers. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, he became the first footballer in history to score in five different World Cup editions.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, Ronaldo’s latest achievement further strengthens his legendary status. His longevity, fitness, and continued impact at the highest level remain extraordinary in modern football.
Portugal will enter the tournament with hopes of making another deep run, while fans eagerly wait to see whether Ronaldo can add one final unforgettable chapter to his historic international career.

