Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent injury has sparked concerns about his availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portugal captain is expected to miss his country’s upcoming international friendlies, according to reports.
He picked up a hamstring injury during a Saudi Pro League match and has already started his recovery process. In a statement, Al Nassr said, “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al Fayha. He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”
The club has not shared any clear timeline for his return. Portugal is scheduled to play Mexico and the United States in friendlies later this month, which are seen as important preparations ahead of the World Cup starting on June 11.
Ronaldo has enjoyed strong form this season, leading the Golden Boot race with 21 league goals. Al Nassr currently sits at the top of the table with 67 points from 26 matches.
Despite the injury, Ronaldo has been named in Portugal’s squad for the international break. He is also not in Saudi Arabia at the moment. Due to the ongoing Gulf conflict, he and his family are believed to have travelled to Spain and have not returned. Reports suggest he is staying at a mansion in La Finca in Madrid.
Fans across the world will be hoping he recovers in time for the World Cup, which could be his final appearance in the tournament. Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in 2003 at the age of 18.
Since then, he has played in eleven major tournaments for his country and scored his first international goal at Euro 2004, where Portugal reached the final. He was part of the team of the tournament and was later appointed captain before Euro 2008. At Euro 2012, he was again named in the team of the tournament.
He scored four goals in the 2018 World Cup and captained Portugal to victory at Euro 2016. He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2020 and later featured in the 2022 World Cup, his fifth appearance in the competition. He has also led Portugal to UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
