Ronaldo spurred on by 1,000 goals and Portugal glory

Cristiano Ronaldo said he contemplated retirement after the World Cup but decided to extend his career because he believes he can help Portugal achieve further success and reach a personal milestone of 1,000 career goals. The 41‑year‑old confirmed in the summer that the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament, although his long‑term future remained unclear. He has been named in Jorge Jesus’ 25‑man squad for Portugal’s Nations League campaign, which opens against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday night. In the buildup to the match with Craig Bellamy’s side, the Al‑Nassr forward also highlighted the 21 goals he needs to hit the symbolic 1,000‑goal mark. When asked whether he had thought about retiring from international duty after the World Cup, Ronaldo replied: “Yes, I did.” He added: “Of course, I'm ever reasoning connected my decisions, my future, the contiguous also. I'm a thinker, you person to think.” The former Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus player stated: “I had a speech with our president, with our coach. I inactive judge that I'm capable to assistance the nationalist squad to scope what they want.” He continued: “I deliberation I tin springiness to the nationalist squad my support, not lone done the goals, but besides extracurricular of football.” Ronaldo, a two‑time Nations League winner with Portugal, said securing a third title is another objective alongside his personal ambitions. “Both aims are important,” he said. “One 1000 goals, yes, and the nationalist team. Winning the Nations League, the contention starts time [Thursday], it's a caller age.”