Ronaldo Confirms Final World Cup After Portugal Exit

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the recently concluded FIFA World Cup was the final tournament of his career after Portugal suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat against Spain in the round of 16.

Spain secured the victory through Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time goal, leaving Portugal’s captain emotional as he walked off the field after the final whistle.

Speaking after the match, Ronaldo said he was disappointed with the way Portugal’s World Cup journey ended but insisted he had no regrets about his performance and commitment to the national team.

“I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this. I gave everything I had and did my best. I’m leaving with a clear conscience,” Ronaldo said.

The 41-year-old confirmed that this was his last World Cup appearance but said he would take time to reflect on his future and spend time with his family rather than make immediate decisions.

Ronaldo also avoided confirming whether he had played his final match for Portugal, explaining that he did not want personal matters to take attention away from the team’s World Cup campaign.

The veteran forward expressed pride in his international achievements, highlighting Portugal’s major successes during his career, including the 2016 European Championship and UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.

He said winning Euro 2016 remained one of the greatest achievements in Portuguese football history and was personally as meaningful as winning a World Cup title.

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Portugal’s elimination also marked the end of Roberto Martinez’s tenure as head coach. Ronaldo praised the Spanish manager, describing him as a great coach and a great person who made valuable contributions to Portuguese football.

Reflecting on the defeat, Ronaldo said Portugal had shown improvement during the tournament and believed the match could have gone either way.

“It is always difficult to be eliminated from a major tournament like the World Cup, but we can leave with our heads held high,” said the Al-Nassr forward.