By Stephen Simon
Portugal national team head coach Roberto Martínez has said there should be “no doubt” that Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro could still feature at the 2030 FIFA World Cup at the age of 45, praising the veteran forward’s extraordinary longevity, discipline, and mentality.
Ronaldo is expected to make a record sixth World Cup appearance this summer as he leads Portugal national football team at the tournament in North America. Portugal will also co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Morocco.
Speaking to Cadena SER radio, Martínez said Ronaldo’s career trajectory and physical discipline make it impossible to rule out another World Cup appearance beyond 2026.
“No one should doubt that. He’s earned it,” the coach said when asked whether Ronaldo could still be active at 45.
Ronaldo, who made his international debut in 2003, remains the all-time leader in appearances and goals for a men’s national team, with 226 caps and 143 goals. He is also the only player in history to have scored in five different World Cups.
Martínez praised the veteran forward’s mentality, describing him as a role model for younger players in Portugal.
“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,” he said.
The Portugal coach added that Ronaldo’s success is driven not only by physical preparation but by an extraordinary mentality that sets him apart from other elite players.
“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,” Martínez said.
He contrasted Ronaldo’s mindset with other top players who, according to him, often lose motivation after winning major trophies such as the Champions League or Ballon d’Or.
Ronaldo, now 41, heads into the upcoming tournament in strong form after scoring 28 goals to help Al Nassr FC win the Saudi Pro League title—his first league trophy since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2022.
Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on June 17, before facing Uzbekistan on June 23, and concluding their Group K fixtures against Colombia on June 27.
