The 2022 World Cup may be the final stage for Ronaldo (37 years old) and Messi (35 years old) to showcase their talents on the “global stage.” However, they are not the oldest players participating in Qatar.
The World Cup is not only an opportunity for young talents to prove their abilities, but also a platform for seasoned veterans to demonstrate their experience and endurance over the years. The 2022 tournament could be the last chance for stars like Ronaldo, Dani Alves, and Luka Modric to shine on the “global stage.” Below is a list of the oldest players included in the squad for the 2022 World Cup.
Mexico goalkeeper Alfredo Talavera, aged 40 years and 2 months, is the oldest player to compete in the 2022 World Cup.
Leading the list is Mexico’s goalkeeper Alfredo Talavera, at 40 years and 2 months. Following him is Canada’s midfielder Atiba Hutchinson, who is 39 years and 9 months old. Hutchinson was only 3 years old when Canada last participated in the World Cup.
In third place is Portugal’s defender Pepe, aged 39 years and 8 months. Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima follows closely behind. Rounding out the top five is Dani Alves, who is 39 years and 6 months old. The Brazilian defender holds the record for the most titles in the world but is still missing a World Cup championship.
Qatar 2022 presents a final opportunity for the former Barcelona player to complete his illustrious collection. Ronaldo, aged 37 years and 9 months, ranks 9th among the oldest players in the 2022 World Cup. His former teammate Luka Modric is last on the list, at 37 years and 2 months. The ages of the players are calculated as of November 2022.
Historically, Egypt’s goalkeeper Essam El Hadary is the oldest player to have ever participated in the World Cup. He appeared in the 2018 World Cup at the age of 45 years and 161 days. This player officially retired two years later at the age of 47.
