Ronaldo and Other Ageing Stars Defy Limits at World Cup 2026

The Ageing Stars of World Cup 2026

After playing at Qatar 2022 at age 35, US national team defender Tim Ream thought it was “pretty unlikely” he could play in another World Cup. But he decided he would at least try to stay in the game as long as possible.

Pushing Boundaries with Science and Data

Evolving sport science plays a significant role in extending career longevity – the days when “recovery” meant having a few beers after the game are long gone, and many players now extoll all kinds of developments from lymphatic draining to cryotherapy.

Huge amounts of data measuring biomarkers from heart rate variability and muscle oxygenation to hormonal fluctuations and inflammation are also now available, including from wearable technology.

The Key to Longevity in Football

Experts argue that sport science is just part of a complex system of interlocking factors needed to extend longevity in football, including culture, relationships, a learning mindset, luck, resources, and the motivation to keep going into a fifth decade.

“It’s not just about the science, or machines, or AI,” Vlatko Vucetic, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Zagreb who has worked as a personal trainer with Croatian and ex-Real Madrid midfielder Modric for more than 10 years, told Al Jazeera.

“This question is always about people.”

Setting an Example for Younger Generations

Ream, who made his US men’s national team debut way back in 2010, says recovery has become harder as he’s aged and he credits Pilates, red-light therapy, and prioritising sleep with helping him in recent years.

He says the hardest part of playing on at 38 is being away from his family for large stretches. But he notes that he is partly playing on for his three children.

“[I’m] setting an example for them of setting goals and following through and pushing yourself and grit and determination and leadership,” he said.

The Importance of Connections and Adaptability

Veterans playing into middle age will often adapt their game to compensate for slowing legs with assets like enhanced vision.

“I think my biggest improvement is being able to see things as they’re developing, and as they’re happening, but then also understanding and adapting to different coaches,” Ream said.

“I think that’s where you have to understand the interpersonal side with this game, because it’s all about connections, it’s all about communication, it’s all about relationships on and off the field.”