Cristiano Ronaldo cries after Portugal's World Cup exit, confirms it was his last tournament
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Cristiano Ronaldo wept after Portugal's 1-0 loss to Spain, confirming it was his final World Cup.
- He had previously become the only player to score in six different World Cups.
- Ronaldo expressed sadness but also tranquility, stating he gave his best and won three titles with Portugal, which had none before him.
Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth and final World Cup ended in tears as Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain, eliminating them from the tournament. The captain, visibly emotional, approached the Portuguese fans after the match, apologizing for not achieving their goal.
Just days prior, Ronaldo had etched his name in history by becoming the first male player to score in six different World Cups. Despite this individual milestone, Portugal's campaign fell short, facing tough opponents like Croatia and ultimately Spain in the knockout stages.
Following the final whistle, the Portuguese squad approached their supporters, who applauded them. It was then that Ronaldo, overwhelmed by the moment, broke down in tears. This display of emotion echoed his reaction in the previous World Cup, where he was seen crying after Portugal's quarter-final exit.
It was surely my last World Cup, there's no turning back. The national team, we'll see. I need to be calm and think about it.
Speaking to the press, the 41-year-old forward confirmed his decision to retire from World Cups. "It was surely my last World Cup, there's no turning back," he stated. He added that he needs time to calmly consider his future with the national team, emphasizing that any decision would be made after consulting with his family and loved ones.
Ronaldo reflected on his extensive career, expressing peace with his performance. "I'm like I woke up today, the same, with a clear conscience. I gave my best and won three titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal had not won any titles, so I am happy," he said, highlighting the Euro 2016 victory as his greatest achievement.
I'm like I woke up today, the same, with a clear conscience. I gave my best and won three titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal had not won any titles, so I am happy.
Originally published by La Naciรณn in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.