Portugal's national team coach, Roberto Martinez, has stated that "no one" should doubt the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo playing in the 2030 FIFA World Cup when he will be 45 years old. Martinez praised Ronaldo's dedication and performance, emphasizing that the football legend has "earned" the opportunity. Ronaldo is set to make a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance this summer in North America, aiming for his first World Cup title. Portugal, along with Spain and Morocco, will co-host the 2030 World Cup, offering Ronaldo a potential home advantage.

Ronaldo, 41, has not shown any signs of retirement after this year's tournament. He continues to impress with his performance, scoring 28 goals in Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League title win. Martinez remarked on Ronaldo's mindset.

"Cristiano does not play to win a specific title but is defined by his hunger for improvement," he told Cadena Ser radio, per ESPN.

Ronaldo's career statistics are impressive, with 226 international caps and 143 goals, making him Portugal's top goal-scorer. He is also the only player to have scored in all the World Cups he has participated in.

As Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectations, the possibility of him playing in the 2030 World Cup remains a topic of interest. His commitment to the sport and his physical fitness suggest that he might emulate Essam El Hadary, who played in the World Cup at 45. Ronaldo's desire to play alongside his son, Cristiano Junior, who is pursuing a professional career, adds another layer to his motivation to continue playing at the highest level.

The Portuguese team, currently ranked fifth in the FIFA world rankings, is preparing for the 2026 World Cup, with their first match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on June 17 in Houston.

You can follow the US Men's National Team and listen to Fox's coverage of all 104 FIFA World Cup 2026 games LIVE and for FREE via iHeartRadio’s digital app and more than 100 broadcast stations nationwide! You can also get the latest news and updates with iHeartRadio's lineup of soccer-focused podcasts, including Inside American Soccer with Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos and The Away End with Daniel Alarcón and John Green.

Greg Kretschmar