Cristiano Ronaldo's tears mark Portugal's exit from World Cup 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey concluded in tears after Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat against Spain in the round of 16 of the 2026 tournament. The emotional exit came after Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, ending the 41-year-old superstar's quest for the sport's most coveted trophy.

As the final whistle blew, Ronaldo, visibly moved, wiped away tears while applauding the Portuguese supporters. This tournament marked his fifth World Cup appearance, and despite his legendary status and numerous records, the World Cup title remains the one major honor that eluded him. He leaves the tournament with 27 appearances, the second most in World Cup history, and 11 goals.

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He has been an exemplary captain. I came to Portugal at a time of much confusion and doubt about Cristiano. But he became a role model, not just through goals and assists, but through his commitment and the way he lives football. He is an example and we must celebrate him.

Portugal's coach, Roberto Martínez, paid a heartfelt tribute to Ronaldo, describing him as an exemplary captain and a global icon. "He has been an exemplary captain," Martínez stated after the match. "I came to Portugal at a time of much confusion and doubt about Cristiano. But he became a role model, not just through goals and assists, but through his commitment and the way he lives football. He is an example and we must celebrate him."

Martínez further emphasized Ronaldo's unique place in football history, acknowledging the gratitude felt for his contributions. "We are all going to remember him as an extraordinary example, both as an athlete and as a person." Despite his personal ambitions, Ronaldo's final World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, with Spain advancing to the quarterfinals.

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We are all going to remember him as an extraordinary example, both as an athlete and as a person.