Few achievements in football demand as much consistency, longevity, and excellence as appearing at multiple FIFA World Cups. For most players, reaching one tournament is a career-defining moment. For a select few, the World Cup becomes a recurring chapter in a story that spans decades..
Lionel Messi added another milestone to his remarkable career last night, becoming the first player to appear in six different men’s World Cups. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made history during Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to match that feat when Portugal takes to the field in its opening match of the World Cup 2026 tournament tonight.
Meanwhile, Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has also been named to a sixth World Cup squad, further cementing his place among football’s most enduring figures.
Here are some of the game’s greatest World Cup legends:
6 World Cups
Lionel Messi: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026
Guillermo Ochoa*: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026
4 World Cups
Pelé: 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970
Diego Maradona: 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994
3 World Cups
Zinedine Zidane: 1998, 2002, 2006
David Beckham: 1998, 2002, 2006
Ronaldinho: 2002, 2006, 2010
*Ochoa has been named to six World Cup squads but made an appearance in only four