Ronaldo insists retirement from international football will be on his own terms

Cristiano Ronaldo has firmly stated that his retirement from international football will be his decision alone. Facing persistent questions about the end of his career ahead of Portugal's World Cup match, the 41-year-old captain made it clear that no one else will dictate when he steps away from the national team.

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I am not the player I used to be.

While acknowledging that age has altered his capabilities, admitting, "I am not the player I used to be," Ronaldo emphasized his continued contribution. He pointed to his three goals in the tournament, including a penalty against Croatia, as evidence of his ongoing impact. He also addressed the constant scrutiny regarding his future, stating, "It’s been like this since I was 18, it is not going to change."

Ronaldo asserted his commitment, saying, "I always put body and soul trying to get our goals, playing or not playing, I will always have an important role to play." He reiterated his stance on retirement: "(I will stop) when I choose, not when you choose, you always ask the same question." He downplayed the significance of these questions, calling them "less important."

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It’s been like this since I was 18, it is not going to change.

The veteran forward, who is the all-time leading international scorer, also pushed back against critics questioning his longevity. "You have been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that is not worth it," he remarked, adding, "I am so used to this." Ronaldo believes that winning or losing the World Cup will not alter his legacy, stating, "I am not going to be more Cristiano Ronaldo or less because I win the World Cup."

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I always put body and soul trying to get our goals, playing or not playing, I will always have an important role to play.

Reflecting on his life beyond 40, Ronaldo shared that experience has matured his perspective on criticism. "Age gives you maturity and experience to see how relative things can be," he said. He even expressed gratitude for the attacks he faces, viewing criticism as a catalyst for growth. Ending the press conference, Ronaldo affirmed he has no regrets about his dedication to football, stating, "Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano Ronaldo will leave with a clear conscience, not 100 percent but 1,000 percent because in life and football I gave everything."

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I don’t want draw attention to this because it is less important.