Could Cristiano Ronaldo play at 2030 World Cup? Portugal coach says it's possible

Ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth World Cup appearance with Portugal, national team manager Roberto Martinez suggested that the icon could play in the 2030 edition.

Ronaldo would be 45 at that tournament, which Portugal will host along with Spain and Morocco, with opening games also played in Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina.

Martinez appeared on Cadena Ser radio on Thursday, May 28 and was asked about the possibility of Ronaldo playing at the 2030 competition.

"No one should doubt that," Martinez said. "He's earned it."

Since his debut in 2003, the 41-year-old is the all-time leader in men's international soccer for appearances (226) and goals (143).

"We would love to be able to pass on Cristiano Ronaldo's model to all young footballers in Portugal because he is a role model," said Martinez.

With Ronaldo heading towards the tail end of his playing days, the Spanish manager has noticed the drive of the striker as he aims to claim the one trophy he has yet to win in his illustrious career.

"We, the [national team] coaching staff, have come to a conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo does not play to win a specific collective or individual title," Martinez said.

"Cristiano is not defined by what he eats, but by the hunger he possesses. Whatever Cristiano wins, the very next day he has the same hunger to improve.

"I have worked with many players that have won a Champions League or a Ballon d'Or, and the next day they lose their appetite. What we have with Ronaldo is an example of a different mentality.

"I believe that having that goal is what allows for longevity. Of course, there is a genetic aspect, the work he puts in - he uses everything that can help his body - and his mentality."

Portugal kicks off Group K action against DR Congo in Houston on June 17. They will conclude the group stage with matches against Uzbekistan (June 23 in Houston) and Colombia (June 27 in Miami).

During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Portugal advanced to the knockout stages of the tournament before eventually falling 1-0 to Morocco in the quarterfinals.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Could Cristiano Ronaldo play at 2030 World Cup? Portugal coach says it's possible

Reporting by Jonathan Abraham, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published May 29, 2026 at 12:01 PM.