The last three professional dreams that Ronaldo must realize before retiring, Messi has completed the first | International Sports News
At a time when most players have retired for several years and are working as coaches or commentators, the 41-year-old cristiano ronaldo His final actions are being chosen carefully, with three clear goals still on his agenda. The Portugal striker, who is expected to feature in his sixth FIFA World Cup in 2026, said it would be his last and his career would end with a final push for legacy, numbers and something more personal.
The missing link: World Cup champion
The most obvious goal also decided the final chapter of his international career. ronaldo Despite playing in five World Cups between 2006 and 2022, making 22 appearances and scoring eight goals, he has never won the World Cup. His best result is still fourth place in 2006. Winning the World Cup is the one major honor missing from his record and one he has already earned. Lionel Messi. This comparison has stuck with both players over the years and remains central to how their careers are measured. The Portuguese team is not traditionally a favorite and has only reached the semifinals twice in history, in 1966 and 2006. However, their victory at Euro 2016 was a reminder that they can rise above expected competition. Although Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury in March 2026 and his previous red card suspension was later lifted, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez still regards Ronaldo as a key part of the team’s journey to the World Cup.
Heading towards 1,000 career goals
In addition to his international ambitions, Ronaldo is also approaching a rare statistical milestone in football history. On April 19, 2026, he scored the 969th goal of his career in AFC Al Nasr Football Club’s 4-0 victory over Al Wasl Football Club. Champions League 2 quarter-finals, goal in the 11th minute. This puts him very close to the 1,000-goal mark, a number that has become a clear personal goal.Messi currently has 905 goals, and although the method seems different, he is not far from the goal. While Ronaldo continued to move towards the milestone, Messi showed less urgency and even passed up opportunities, including allowing Nicolas Otamendi to take a penalty so that he could mark his farewell moment with the national team, a move that suggested he was no longer chasing numbers in the same way. The contrast is not a contrast of ability, but a contrast of intention. Ronaldo’s pursuit of 1,000 has become part of his closing statement, a goal he is actively chasing rather than something that might happen along the way.Also read: Could Ronaldo play with his son at Al Nasr next season? Report says club plans promotion after 16th birthday
Milestones of a different kind: playing with Cristiano Junior
The third goal was less traditional but equally important for Ronaldo. Now he is likely to play in the first team alongside his son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. The idea gained traction after reports emerged that Al Nasr was considering promoting Ronaldo’s eldest son to the first team. Cristiano Jr. will turn 16 in June, and while that step still depends on development and timing, it’s no longer a distant possibility. If that happens, Ronaldo will join the rare ranks of athletes competing at the highest level with their children. Most often compared to LeBron James and Bronny James, who have reached similar milestones in the NBA. It’s extremely rare in football, especially in the top flight, which is why this goal carries a different weight. It’s not about trophies or records, it’s about a standalone moment in the history of the sport.
Current form and final stretch
Ronaldo’s performance showed that these goals were not purely symbolic. Even at the age of 41, he continues to influence the game and make decisive contributions for Al Nassr, maintaining a level that has kept him relevant at club level and internationally. His current contract with the Saudi club runs until 2027 and he signed a record-breaking extension that will keep him with the team for 42 years. Reports suggest he earns around €200 million per season, with performance bonuses and commercial add-ons tied to goals and success.Internationally, he remains central to Portugal’s 2026 plans fifa world cup In June, it is expected to mark the final chapter of his international career. He continues to play a key role in the team’s qualifying and leadership, mentoring the younger generation while still leading the offense as they prepare for their final major event together.
