The FIFA World Cup 2022 has been one of the biggest sporting events of the year so far. Throughout the tournament, fans have witnessed some incredible goals, nail-biting penalty shootouts, emotional heartbreaks and some unforgettable moments which will go down in sports history. But like every World Cup, the one hosted by Qatar will see many goodbyes which will be difficult, not only for athletes but also for the fans.
We saw some of the greatest players lock horns against each other this year, who may not be around for the next World Cup hosted in North America. So SportsTiger compiled this list of footballing legends, who may have played the last World Cup of their careers. This list includes stalwarts of the game, who had a massive influence on the sport over their playing career.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal (37-year-old)
The young boy from Madeira, who ruled Manchester was destined to take home the biggest footballing trophy in Qatar. But, unfortunately, Os Navegadores couldn’t take down a mighty Moroccan team which brought with it an impenetrable defence. At 37, Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t the same player that dominated world football for nearly two decades and hence could be in the twilight of his career. Despite, expressing a desire to play in the 2024 Euros, CR7 will be 41 by the next World Cup, making a comeback at that age extremely difficult.
Lionel Messi, Argentina (35-year-old)
The Saviour of Argentina still is in the running for the World Cup title as the two-time champions are slated to face Croatia in the semi-finals. Messi has arguably been one of the greatest players of all time and has showcased his class in Qatar with four goals and two assists. But still, the Barcelona legend may not be part of the Argentine side for World Cup 2026 as he would nearing his 40s.
Robert Lewandowski, Poland (34 years old)
The Polish sniper has dominated in the goal-scoring department over the last decade with his laser-sharp precision and near-perfect finishing skills. But, Lewandowski couldn’t replicate this magnanimous success for his national team. At age 34, injuries have been a regular fixture of his season and hence, the former Bundesliga star could have around two or three full seasons in him. So this may be his second and last appearance on the biggest stage of world football.
Luka Modric, Croatia (37-year-old)
The Real Madrid stalwart has been one of the best midfielders in the history of the sport and has been the heart of Croatian football over the last 10 years. Luka Magic helped the Croats reach the finals of the last World Cup and this time as will have another chance to repeat that feat. But this may be the final time we see Modric on this global stage as it would be near-impossible to generate his work rate on the highest level at the age of 41.
Thiago Silva, Brazil (38-year-old)
O Monstro has been among the most fearsome defenders over the last decade in world football. The Chelsea centre-back has managed to be the back of many Brazilian teams but this may be his last appearance in a World Cup wearing the iconic yellow and green. Silva will be 42 by the next World Cup and playing at that age wouldn’t make sense for him as well as for the Seleção Canarinho, who would want to take revenge for this loss.
