World Cup 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo fires back at critics as Portugal arrive in USA for tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo has responded sharply to criticism of his form and fitness after arriving in the United States with Portugal ahead of their 2026 World Cup campaign in Texas, where the 41-year-old is set to make history.

The veteran forward, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, is preparing to feature in a record sixth men’s World Cup finals appearance when Portugal face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston on Wednesday.

No male footballer has previously reached six editions of the tournament.

Ronaldo dismissed concerns about his recent performances during a media interaction while travelling with the squad, questioning whether critics had properly observed his displays.

“Did you even watch it?”

Portugal’s preparations have drawn scrutiny after a series of friendly matches in which the team struggled to find top form, with Ronaldo himself failing to score in recent games.

However, the forward insisted that the demanding nature of the training camp had contributed to the subdued performances.

He added that Portugal would show their true quality once competitive matches begin, pointing to June 17 as the moment when expectations should be judged more fairly.

Ronaldo remains central to Portugal’s ambitions despite his age, with his leadership and experience seen as vital as the team attempts to pursue football’s most prestigious prize.

The World Cup remains the only major trophy missing from his otherwise decorated international and club career.

His arrival in the United States has reignited debate over whether he can still perform at the highest level on football’s biggest stage, particularly as he approaches the twilight of his playing days.

Yet Ronaldo has consistently rejected suggestions of decline, maintaining that his physical condition and competitive drive remain intact.

The Portuguese captain’s determination has also drawn comparisons with former Cameroon striker Roger Milla, who famously extended his international career into his 40s.

Milla made headlines during the 1994 World Cup in the United States when, at 42, he became the oldest goalscorer in tournament history with a goal against Russia.

Ronaldo now heads into his sixth World Cup with a similar sense of longevity and legacy surrounding him.

As the men’s international goals record holder and a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, he continues to chase the one major honour that has so far eluded him.

For Portugal, the focus will be on turning experience into results as they begin another attempt at global success, with all eyes on whether their talisman can deliver one final defining tournament moment before eventually bringing his international career to a close.