SEATTLE: Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has admitted that the ongoing FIFA World Cup could be his final major tournament in international football, while leaving a small window open for a possible extension to his national team career.
The 34-year-old Real Madrid shot-stopper, who has earned 109 caps since his debut in 2011, spoke candidly about his future on Thursday as Belgium prepared for their Group G opener against Egypt in Seattle.
Courtois acknowledged that the likelihood of him stepping away from international duty after the tournament is higher than continuing beyond it.
Catch all FIFA World Cup 2026 live updates here!
“I don’t know if we should be talking about the future right now, but the chances are greater that I won’t continue after this tournament than that I will,” he said.
The goalkeeper, however, insisted that he still feels physically capable of playing at the highest level for a few more years, while also stressing the importance of managing his workload.
“I still want to play for a few more years. And then you have to take care of your body. My family is here because this could be my last tournament,” Courtois added.
Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel
Despite his comments, the Belgian vice-captain made it clear that his final decision will depend on both personal reflection and the overall experience at the World Cup.
“If we have a good World Cup, of course. And continuing to feel the good atmosphere within the group. Afterwards, I’ll need to have an internal discussion with the coach, Vincent Mannaert, and the doctors,” he said.
Courtois also reflected on the physical toll of international football, pointing to earlier periods where he was occasionally rested during Belgium duty under former coach Domenico Tedesco, which influenced his current thinking about longevity.
READ: From Messi to Mbappe: Records on the line at FIFA World Cup 2026
