Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the ongoing 20226 FIFA World Cup would be his last tournament for Portugal.
The 41-year-old cofirmed this in a pre-match press conference as Portugal gear up to face European rivals Spain n the round of 16 of the tournament co-hosted by USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Ronaldo became the first player to feature in six World Cups, and also the oldest player in the knockout rounds.
He scored a penalty as Portugal overcame Croatia 2-1 in the round of 32.
In addition to appearing in his final World Cup, Ronaldo said he hopes to lead Portugal deeper into the last eight and beyond, and assured the media that his retirement will come on his own terms.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible… This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game. The day will come [when I retire from international football]. But I’ll be honest, whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in football. I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion.
“I play football because I love it, you have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals [at this World Cup], I’m not doing too badly, right?”
Ronaldo is one of the most criticised football superstars in a accolades-laden career that includes five Ballon D’Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles, and the Euro 2020 title.
However, the Saudi League winner with Al Nassr defiantly stated that missing out on winning the World Cup will not diminish his legacy, and that he expects more criticism after retirement.
“I’m not lacking anything in life. I’m not going to be more, or less, Cristiano because I win the World Cup. We have the qualities to win, but only one country can win it. Age gives you maturity and experience.
“I’m thankful even for the attacks I receive, turning 40 — and I hope to live another 40 years — with the criticism, that’s how you grow the most as a person, and I thank you journalists for that.”
Portugal face Spain in the round of 16 match at the Dallas stadium in Texas on Monday, July 6.