Euro 2016 equals World Cup for me, says Ronaldo after Spain exit

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that his triumph at Euro 2016 with Portugal carries the same weight for him as a World Cup title, reflecting on the end of his illustrious World Cup career. Portugal's journey in the 2026 World Cup concluded with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, a match decided by a stoppage-time goal from Mikel Merino.

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I’ve won Euro 2016 and for me it has same dimension as the World Cup. That remains forever. Tomorrow is a new day, and we go.

Speaking to reporters after the match, the 41-year-old forward emphasized that the continental championship he secured a decade ago holds a special place in his heart, equal to football's most coveted prize, which he never managed to win during his international tenure. "I've won Euro 2016 and for me it has same dimension as the World Cup. That remains forever," Ronaldo stated.

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I will wake up tomorrow with same mood as I did today. I did my best. I won three titles with Portugal, before me it was zero titles. I can only be happy.

He expressed no regrets about how his final World Cup campaign ended, instead focusing on his overall trophy haul with the national team. "I did my best. I won three titles with Portugal, before me it was zero titles. I can only be happy," he added. Ronaldo, who had previously confirmed this would be his last World Cup, reiterated that his international tournament career is now over, though he left the door slightly ajar for potential future involvement with the national team in other capacities. "It’s been my last World Cup, yes… but now I will have time to think, stay with my family and life continues," he said.

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It’s been my last World Cup, yes… but now I will have time to think, stay with my family and life continues.

Ronaldo concluded his World Cup career with 27 appearances and 11 goals across six editions. His deepest run in the tournament was reaching the semi-finals in his debut in 2006. Beyond the elusive World Cup trophy, his international accolades include the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles. Spain, meanwhile, advances to the quarter-finals to face the winner of the USA-Belgium match.

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I’m leaving with clear conscience. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. I’m sad now after being eliminated like this… but I gave it all, my very best.