Cristiano Ronaldo has had a legendary career with the Portugal national team, and he's looking to further cement his status as one of the game's greatest in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ronaldo is already the all-time leader in international appearances for a men's national team with 226, as well as goals with 143. In the World Cup, he has played in 22 matches and recorded eight goals, making him the only man to score in five World Cups.
As Ronaldo enters his record sixth World Cup, though, plenty of eyes will be on him as he looks to win his first trophy with Portugal in the tournament.
Reuters via Imagn Images
With anticipation for the 41-year-old striker's appearance in the competition increasing, the FIFA World Cup's social media accounts recently shared photos of Ronaldo from his past World Cup participations.
Fans couldn't help but take notice how Ronaldo looked over the years, from starting in the World Cup as a 21-year-old back in 2006 to headlining the squad as a 37-year-old in 2022.
"Cristiano is so handsome always beautiful in all outfit and over the years," a commenter wrote on Instagram. Another one said, "2018 best look."
"What a transformation," a fan posted on X. A supporter added, "Bro is aging backwards."
"2006 smile is so pure and hopeful. The smile capturing the dream of a young boy vs the smile capturing the reflections of a legend," a follower stated.
"Forever young," a social media user noted.
The wait to see Ronaldo and Portugal in the World Cup isn't long. The 2026 competition, set to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, will start on June 11.
Portugal is part of Group K, where they will face the likes of Congo DR, Uzbekistan and Colombia in in the group stage.
