Cristiano Ronaldo’s Bold Move: Why He Skipped the FIFA Club World Cup and Keeps Shining at 40

Cristiano Ronaldo

At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo is still the name on everyone’s lips. The soccer legend recently turned heads by saying “no” to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, even with juicy offers from top clubs. Instead, he’s stealing the show in the UEFA Nations League, leading Portugal to a historic win over Germany after 25 years and gearing up to face Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal in the final. With his contract at Al-Nassr possibly extending beyond June 30, 2025, and his refusal to retire, Ronaldo’s passion for the game is undeniable. Let’s dive into why he’s making these choices, his incredible career, his take on rival Lionel Messi, and why I think he should keep playing as long as his heart’s in it.

Why Ronaldo Passed on the FIFA Club World Cup 2025

The FIFA Club World Cup, set to kick off June 14, 2025, in the U.S., is shaping up to be a massive event with 32 teams, including Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. Everyone thought Ronaldo, the ultimate competitor, would jump at the chance to shine on this global stage, especially with clubs like Brazil’s Botafogo and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal reportedly offering deals to lure him for the tournament. A special transfer window from June 1-10 made it possible, but Ronaldo dropped a bombshell: he’s “practically decided” to sit it out.

Why say no? It’s all about focus. Ronaldo’s laser-focused on his current club, Al-Nassr, where he’s been a goal-scoring machine since 2022. With his contract ending June 30, 2025, whispers suggest he’s close to signing a new deal to stay in Saudi Arabia. A cryptic post on May 26, saying “this chapter is over,” had fans buzzing about a possible move, but it seems Ronaldo wants to build something lasting with Al-Nassr, aiming for trophies rather than a quick Club World Cup stint. He’s also got his eyes on leading Portugal at the 2026 World Cup and hitting a jaw-dropping 1,000 career goals. For Ronaldo, it’s about the long game, not a one-off spectacle.

UEFA Nations League 2025: Ronaldo’s Magic and Portugal’s Epic Win

On June 4, 2025, Ronaldo proved age is just a number. In the UEFA Nations League semifinal in Munich, Portugal faced Germany, a team that had beaten them in their last five meetings. But Ronaldo, ever the clutch performer, scored the decisive goal, ending a 25-year drought against Germany and sending Portugal to the final. That goal—his 137th for Portugal—cemented his status as the greatest international goal-scorer in men’s soccer history. The win wasn’t just a stat; it was a middle finger to anyone doubting his fire at 40.

Now, Ronaldo’s got a date with Spain in the Nations League final on June 8, 2025, at the Allianz Arena. The matchup is electric, pitting him against 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, Spain’s dazzling winger who lit up the semis with two goals in a 5-4 thriller against France. It’s a battle of old-school grit versus new-school flair. Ronaldo’s no stranger to Spain, having scored a hat-trick against them in a wild 3-3 draw at the 2018 World Cup. Spain’s goalkeeper called Ronaldo “a machine” who inspires with his work ethic but admitted he’s praying CR7 doesn’t find the net. Good luck with that.

Ronaldo on Messi: Respect Amid the Rivalry

The Ronaldo-Messi rivalry has been soccer’s greatest soap opera for nearly two decades. In a recent interview before the Nations League final, Ronaldo opened up about Lionel Messi, calling him “a phenomenal player who’s pushed me to raise my game.” He didn’t spill much tea, but his words showed respect for the Argentine, who’s set to play in the Club World Cup with Inter Miami. The two have split 13 Ballon d’Or awards—Ronaldo with 5, Messi with 8—and their paths might’ve crossed again if Ronaldo hadn’t skipped the tournament. Instead, he’s letting Messi have that stage while he chases his own goals.

Their rivalry isn’t just about numbers; it’s about contrasting styles. Ronaldo’s a goal-hungry, athletic force; Messi’s a playmaking wizard. Some, like former Germany coach Joachim Low, lean toward Messi for his all-around game, but Ronaldo’s sheer scoring output—over 900 career goals—keeps him in the GOAT debate. His nod to Messi shows he’s secure in his legacy, focusing on his own journey rather than fueling the comparison game.

From Madeira to Megastar

Cristiano Ronaldo

Born February 5, 1985, in Funchal, Madeira, Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in a working-class family, kicking a ball around the streets with big dreams. He joined Sporting Lisbon’s youth academy as a kid, catching Manchester United’s eye by 18. From there, his career exploded:

- Manchester United (2003-2009, 2021-2022): Won three Premier League titles, a Champions League, and his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, scoring 145 goals in 346 games.

- Real Madrid (2009-2018): Rewrote history with four Champions Leagues, two La Liga titles, four Ballon d’Or awards, and a record 140 Champions League goals.

- Juventus (2018-2021): Bagged two Serie A titles and 101 goals in 134 matches.

- Al-Nassr (2022-present): Smashed 99 goals in 111 games, chasing a major trophy in Saudi Arabia.

Internationally, Ronaldo’s led Portugal to the 2016 European Championship and 2019 Nations League, scoring in ten of eleven major tournaments. His 137 goals in over 220 caps are unmatched in men’s soccer. Off the pitch, he’s a global brand—think CR7 clothing, fragrances, and a massive social media following.

Passion at 40: Why Ronaldo Won’t Retire

Turning 40 in February 2025, Ronaldo’s still defying Father Time. Most players his age like Zlatan Ibrahimović, who retired at 41, or Gianluigi Buffon, who played until 45 but as a goalkeeper have hung up their boots or faded. Not Ronaldo. His diet, training, and mental toughness keep him elite. He’s said he’ll retire “when I feel I can’t give my best,” but that day’s nowhere in sight. His love for soccer drives him whether it’s scoring screamers, mentoring teammates, or inspiring fans.

Ronaldo’s also got unfinished business. He’s chasing 1,000 career goals (he’s past 900 now) and wants to lead Portugal at the 2026 World Cup. His bond with young stars like Lamine Yamal, whom he’s called “a special talent” with “a bright future,” shows he’s not just playing for himself but to inspire the next generation. Speculation about renewing with Al-Nassr past June 30, 2025, suggests he’s committed to building a legacy in Saudi Arabia, where he’s already transformed the league’s profile.

Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal: A Generational Clash

Lamine Yamal

Ronaldo’s admiration for Lamine Yamal adds intrigue to the Nations League final. At 17, Yamal’s a Barcelona prodigy with blistering pace and vision, already drawing Messi comparisons. Ronaldo, who’s faced countless young stars, sees Yamal as a future great, praising his “humility and skill” in a recent chat. Their matchup is symbolic: Ronaldo, the established king, versus Yamal, the heir apparent. It’s a reminder of Ronaldo’s own rise 20 years ago, when he was the teenager turning heads.

Ronaldo should play as long as he wants because he’s still got it. His Nations League heroics show he can compete at the highest level, and his work ethic is a blueprint for athletes everywhere. Unlike peers like Wayne Rooney, who faded in their late 30s, Ronaldo’s reinvented himself—adapting his game to stay lethal. He’s not just chasing records; he’s proving age doesn’t define greatness. If he’s still scoring, leading, and loving the game, why stop? Fans deserve to see him write more chapters, whether it’s at Al-Nassr or on the World Cup stage.

Ronaldo’s Unstoppable Spirit

Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to skip the FIFA Club World Cup isn’t a step back—it’s a calculated move to keep his legacy burning bright. His UEFA Nations League heroics, Portugal’s long-awaited win over Germany, and his looming showdown with Lamine Yamal prove he’s still a force. At 40, with a possible Al-Nassr contract renewal and a heart full of passion, Ronaldo’s showing the world that greatness doesn’t retire—it evolves. Whether he’s breaking records or mentoring the next generation, CR7’s story is far from over. Let’s keep watching.