FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Neymar, Salah Among Five Football Icons Bidding Farewell to the World Cup
France: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters the quarter-final stage, the tournament has also marked the end of an era, with five of world football’s biggest stars making what is expected to be their final World Cup appearances.
Among the legendary players bidding farewell to football’s biggest stage are Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Neymar Jr. (Brazil), Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Casemiro (Brazil), and James Rodríguez (Colombia).
Ronaldo’s Historic Farewell
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo had indicated before the tournament that the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico would likely be the last of his career.
Speaking ahead of his final match, Ronaldo said he was satisfied with everything he had achieved in football, regardless of the result.
The Portuguese superstar also made history by scoring two goals against Uzbekistan, becoming the first player to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cups.
Neymar Ends International Career
Brazilian forward Neymar Jr. struggled to make a significant impact during the tournament, facing stiff competition for a starting place alongside Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha.
The former Barcelona star scored in what became his final international appearance against Norway, but after Brazil’s elimination, he announced his retirement from international football.
“I gave everything I had, but now this journey has come to an end,” Neymar said in an emotional farewell message.
Salah’s World Cup Journey Ends
Egypt captain and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah also exited the tournament after Egypt suffered a comeback defeat to Argentina in a closely contested match.
Salah finished the tournament with one goal and two assists in five matches, falling short of the high standards he has consistently set throughout his career.
Casemiro Announces International Retirement
Veteran Brazilian midfielder Casemiro confirmed his retirement from international football after Brazil was eliminated in the Round of 16.
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner recently completed his contract with Manchester United, where he also helped the club win the Carabao Cup (2023) and the FA Cup (2024).
James Rodríguez Bows Out
Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez, winner of the Golden Boot at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, also brought his World Cup journey to a close after Colombia was eliminated by Switzerland in a penalty shootout in the Round of 16.
James rose to global prominence with his outstanding performances at the 2014 World Cup, earning a move to Real Madrid. Although his club career had mixed success, his remarkable displays in Brazil remain among the most memorable individual performances in World Cup history.
