# Ronaldo extends Portugal career chasing 1,000 goals

> The 41-year-old forward reverses retirement plans to pursue a personal milestone and help Portugal's young squad.
- Title: Ronaldo extends Portugal career chasing 1,000 goals | Shortify
- Summary: The 41-year-old forward reverses retirement plans to pursue a personal milestone and help Portugal's young squad. Ronaldo decided to continue playing for…
- Keywords: cristiano ronaldo, portugal, nations league, 1000 goals, international football, jorge jesus, al-nassr, world cup 2026, wales, career milestone, sports, Ronaldo
- Source: BBC Sport — https://bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/ck4glyl0nwd6o
- Published: 2026-09-23T16:26:38.484+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cristiano ronaldo, portugal, nations league, 1000 goals, international football, jorge jesus, al-nassr, world cup 2026, wales, career milestone, sports
## Ronaldo reverses retirement decision
The 41-year-old considered quitting international football after the 2026 World Cup but has chosen to continue playing for Portugal.

> Yes, I did. Of course, I'm always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also.
## Chasing 1,000 career goals
Ronaldo needs 21 more goals to reach the milestone of 1,000 career goals across club and international football.

> One thousand goals, yes, and the national team.
## Supporting Portugal's young talents
Ronaldo cited helping Portugal's emerging generation, including Fabio Silva and Joao Neves, as a key reason for extending his international career.

> I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that.
## Nations League ambitions
Ronaldo is a two-time Nations League winner and aims to add a third title alongside his personal goal-scoring target.

> Both aims are important. One thousand goals, yes, and the national team. Winning the Nations League.
## 234th cap against Wales
Ronaldo is set to earn his 234th Portugal cap in Thursday's Nations League match against Wales in Lisbon.
## Handling decades of criticism
Ronaldo reflected on facing criticism throughout his 20-year career at top clubs but said he feels most supported by Portugal's fans.

> This is possibly where I have felt most cared. From the fans, I also feel the Portuguese like me.
## Coach Jesus backs Ronaldo's role
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus described Ronaldo as a symbol of the national team and included him in the 25-man squad for the Nations League campaign.
## Key takeaway

Ronaldo decided to continue playing for Portugal beyond the 2026 World Cup to reach 1,000 career goals and mentor emerging talent.