Breaking: Ronaldo and Messi Set to Retire After World CupBreaking: Ronaldo and Messi Set to Retire After World Cup In a seismic announcement that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have declared their intention to retire from international football following the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The iconic duo, who have dominated the sport for over two decades, made the bombshell revelation in a joint press conference today. Ronaldo, 38, and Messi, 35, cited age and the desire to spend more time with their families as their reasons for hanging up their boots. “This World Cup will be my last,” said Ronaldo. “I have given everything to my country during the past 20 years, but it’s time for a new chapter in my life.” “I have decided that this World Cup will be my final international tournament,” added Messi. “It’s a difficult decision, but I feel it’s the right time to step aside and make way for younger players.” The news has sent shockwaves through the football community, with fans, pundits, and former teammates alike expressing disbelief and sadness. “It’s the end of an era,” lamented former Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. “Ronaldo and Messi have set such high standards for everyone, and it’s going to be very difficult to replace them.” “They have been an inspiration to generations of footballers,” added Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez. “It’s almost impossible to imagine football without them.” Ronaldo and Messi’s departure will mark the end of a golden age for their respective countries. Portugal won the European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019, while Argentina lifted the Copa America in 2021. Both players will be hoping to sign off their international careers with a World Cup title. Portugal has been drawn in Group H alongside Ghana, Uruguay, and South Korea, while Argentina is in Group C with Mexico, Poland, and Saudi Arabia. The World Cup will kick off on November 20th in Qatar and will conclude on December 18th.
