Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is considering ending his international career after the World Cup, he said on Thursday as his team prepared for their Group G opener against Egypt in Seattle.
The 34-year-old, who won the first of his 109 caps in 2011, suggested it was time to pass the torch after the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
“I don’t know if we should talk about the future now, but it is more likely that I will not go further after this tournament than that I will,” he told reporters at the Belgian team base.
“I want to play 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.»
But the Real Madrid goalkeeper also suggested he could be persuaded to continue.
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«If we have a good World Cup, of course. And continue to feel the good atmosphere within the group. After that I will have to consult internally with the coach, (technical director) Vincent Mannaert, and the doctors.»
Courtois said he was allowed to miss some international breaks under former coach Domenico Tedesco and that reinforced his thinking.
“I noticed that during those international breaks you can take a break and work quietly in the gym,” he said.
“In addition, I have had more minor physical problems and injuries in the past year and a half, so you naturally think more about the future.
«I am considering passing on the torch. There is a lot of talent coming along with Senne (Lammers) and Mike (Penders).»
Courtois said he would like to compete against Egypt on Monday.
«Yes, I’m very hungry, just like the rest of the group. I feel very good and I’m looking forward to it.»
«I also worked very hard on my comeback in the spring. The (quadriceps) injury was a shame because I felt almost unbeatable at that moment. «But I am ready to maintain my level now and stay focused,» he added.
Belgium will also meet Iran and New Zealand in the group stage.
Published on June 12, 2026
