Ronaldo says he is not planning to retire after World Cup

Posted September 21, 2022 7:00 am

The Associated Press

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo smiles during the Europa League, group E soccer match between Sheriff Tiraspol and Manchester United at the Zimbru stadium, in Chisinau, Moldova, Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022. (AP Photo/Sergei Grits) The Associated Press

LISBON, Portugal (AP) - This year's World Cup apparently won't be the end for Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 37-year-old Portugal star said he is not considering retiring from international soccer in December after the tournament in Qatar, and plans to play at the 2024 European Championship.

'œI'm still motivated. My ambition is really high,'ť Ronaldo said at an event late Tuesday after being recognized by the Portuguese soccer federation for his scoring feats. 'œI'm in a national team with a lot of youngsters. I want to be in the World Cup and at Euros. I want to make that commitment now.'ť

Ronaldo earlier this year had already dismissed retirement talks when asked if the World Cup in Qatar would be his last.

The forward has been struggling at Manchester United and has not been an undisputed starter with the English club.

Ronaldo will enter the World Cup holding the men's all-time record of 117 international goals.

He is preparing with Portugal for Nations League matches at the Czech Republic on Saturday and against Spain at home three days later.

Winner of the inaugural edition of the Nations League in 2019, Portugal trails Spain by one point entering the final two games. Only the group winners will advance to the Final Four.

___

More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his side's second goal on a penalty lick during the Europa League, group E soccer match between Sheriff Tiraspol and Manchester United at the Zimbru stadium, in Chisinau, Moldova, Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022. (AP Photo/Sergei Grits) The Associated Press

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo controls the ball during the Europa League, group E soccer match between Sheriff Tiraspol and Manchester United at the Zimbru stadium, in Chisinau, Moldova, Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022. (AP Photo/Sergei Grits) The Associated Press

Article Comments

Article Categories
Content Providers MLS Pro Sports Soccer Sports Sports Leagues Sports Types

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.