Last World Cup: Cristiano Ronaldo Reflects After Final World Cup Exit
Ronaldo reflects on Portugal’s World Cup elimination, praising his team’s efforts while delaying any decision about his future.
Cristiano Ronaldo says he needs time before deciding his Portugal future after a painful World Cup defeat.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup exit ended with disappointment as Portugal lost 1-0 to Spain in the Round of 16 after Mikel Merino scored a late winner on Monday. The Portuguese forward admitted he was hurt by the result but refused to make an immediate decision about his international career.
Ronaldo said Spain had “a bit of luck” after substitute Merino scored in the closing moments of a match he believed could have gone either way. “I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this,” he said.
“I gave it my all. I did my best, and I’m leaving with a clear conscience. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won’t be making any rash decisions,” he added.
The Portugal captain stopped short of confirming whether he had played his final match for his country. He explained that he did not want his personal choice to distract from the team’s efforts during the FIFA World Cup campaign.
“I don’t make decisions in the heat of the moment,” he said.
The Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup exit follows a career filled with success for Portugal. The Al-Nassr forward helped the nation win the European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
“I’ve won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal hadn’t won a single title,” he said.
Ronaldo also praised former manager Roberto Martinez, who left his role after Portugal’s elimination, calling him “a great manager” and “a great human being”. Despite the defeat, Ronaldo said the team could leave the tournament with pride.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo continue representing Portugal after taking time to consider his next step?
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