Cristiano Ronaldo set to play on U.S. soil for the first time in 4,337 days
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to play his first match on American soil in over a decade this Wednesday, as Portugal opens its World Cup campaign against DR Congo at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. The 41-year-old forward has not appeared in a professional match in the United States since August 2, 2014, marking a span of 4,337 days. His return to U.S. competition follows a period of absence during which he missed Portugal’s recent friendly matches due to a reported hamstring injury.
The Long Absence from U.S. Pitches
Ronaldo’s last competitive appearance in the U.S. occurred during an International Champions Cup match between Real Madrid and Manchester United at Michigan Stadium. That game drew 109,318 spectators, which remains the largest single-game attendance for a soccer match in the United States. Since then, while Ronaldo has visited the country for private events—including a black-tie dinner at the White House last November—he has not participated in any professional matches for his national team or clubs including Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United, and Al Nassr.
Did You Know?
The 2014 match at Michigan Stadium where Ronaldo last played in the U.S. remains the record-holder for the largest single-game attendance in American soccer history, with 109,318 fans in attendance.
Legal History and Public Scrutiny
Ronaldo’s relationship with the U.S. has been marked by a high-profile legal dispute originating from a 2009 incident in Las Vegas. Following allegations of sexual assault made by Kathryn Mayorga, a civil case was initiated in 2017 after an initial 2010 out-of-court settlement. Ronaldo consistently denied the allegations, and in June 2022, a U.S. District Court permanently dismissed the civil case. Judge Jennifer Dorsey ruled that the plaintiff’s attorney, Leslie Mark Stovall, had acted in “bad faith” by utilizing confidential, “purloined” documents. Consequently, the court ordered Stovall to pay Ronaldo more than $330,000 in legal fees.
Expert Insight:
Samantha Carter notes that the resolution of the civil litigation in 2022 provided the legal clarity necessary for Ronaldo to return to American venues without the immediate threat of pending domestic litigation. The shift from a high-stakes legal environment to a focus on tournament play reflects the finality of the court’s dismissal.
Tournament Eligibility and Future Scenarios
Ronaldo enters the World Cup under a probationary disciplinary status. After receiving a red card for an off-the-ball incident involving an elbow to Republic of Ireland defender Dara O’Shea on November 13, 2025, FIFA extended his automatic one-match ban to three games. However, the disciplinary committee suspended the final two games of that ban under a one-year probation period. Provided he avoids similar infringements, he remains eligible for the duration of the tournament.
Analysts expect Portugal to advance to the round of 32, with simulations suggesting a 96 percent probability of progression. Depending on their final group standing, Portugal could face knockout opponents in Kansas City, Toronto, or Atlanta in early July. If the team secures a top-place finish, they are slated for a match in Kansas City on July 3.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Cristiano Ronaldo last play a match in the U.S.?
His last match was on August 2, 2014, during an International Champions Cup tie between Real Madrid and Manchester United at Michigan Stadium.
Why was Ronaldo’s civil case dismissed?
In June 2022, U.S. District Judge Jennifer Dorsey dismissed the case, citing that the plaintiff’s lawyer acted in “bad faith” and relied on “purloined” confidential documents.
Is Ronaldo suspended for the start of the World Cup?
No. While he received a three-match ban following a red card in November 2025, FIFA suspended the final two games of that ban on a one-year probation, allowing him to play in the opener.
Are you planning to attend any of the Portugal group stage matches in Houston or Miami?