‘You’ve been trying to kill me for 23 years’ — Ronaldo fires back at critics

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portuguese football icon, faced a barrage of questions about his future and form on the eve of his team's World Cup knockout match against Spain. While admitting he is no longer the player he once was, Ronaldo pushed back forcefully against persistent criticism, stating that critics have been "trying to kill me for the past 23 years" and that their efforts are a "waste of time."

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You’ve been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that is not worth it, it’s a waste of time, but you try and try and try and try and try.

Despite the scrutiny, Ronaldo highlighted his contributions in the tournament, scoring three goals, including two against Uzbekistan and a penalty against Croatia. He asserted his continued importance to the team, whether playing or not, and vowed to end his international career on his own terms, not at the behest of the media.

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I am not doing too bad.

Ronaldo described this World Cup as the one he has enjoyed the most, citing the "emotions" on and off the pitch. He reflected on how age has brought maturity and experience, even expressing gratitude for the criticism he has faced since turning 40, viewing it as a catalyst for growth. He playfully singled out a reporter he knows dislikes him, challenging him to ask a question.

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As I said before, (I will stop) when I choose, not when you choose, you always ask the same question.

Looking ahead, Ronaldo stated that he will leave football with a "1,000 percent" clear conscience, having given his all. He also mused that winning the World Cup would not fundamentally change his identity as Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing his enduring self-belief regardless of external validation.

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Age gives you maturity and experience to see how relative things can be.