Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of winning the FIFA World Cup has officially come to an end after Portugal suffered a dramatic 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, with the football icon confirming that this was the last World Cup of his legendary career.
Spain sealed victory in stoppage time through a decisive goal from Mikel Merino, leaving Ronaldo in tears as he walked off the pitch following Portugal’s elimination.
Speaking to reporters after the match, the 41-year-old admitted the defeat was heartbreaking.
“I’m sad that my World Cup ended this way. I gave everything I had and tried my absolute best. I leave with a clear conscience. Football is like life—you experience both victories and defeats.”
When asked about his future, Ronaldo confirmed that the tournament marked his final FIFA World Cup.
“Yes, this was my last World Cup. Now I want to spend time with my family and calmly think about my future. I won’t make any rushed decisions.”
However, the Portuguese superstar stopped short of announcing his retirement from international football, saying he did not want any personal decision to overshadow the national team’s campaign.
“I don’t make emotional decisions in moments like these.”
A Legendary International Career
Ronaldo expressed immense pride in his 23-year journey with Portugal, highlighting the nation’s historic successes during his era.
He played a pivotal role in Portugal’s triumphs at UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025, helping the country secure its first major international trophies.
“I’ve represented Portugal for 23 years and won three major titles. I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved with the national team.”
He also described Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph as the greatest achievement in the country’s football history.
“Honestly, winning Euro 2016 means as much to me as winning a World Cup.”
“God Gave Me More Than I Ever Expected”
Reflecting on his career, Ronaldo said he has no regrets.
“Nothing is missing from my life. God has given me more than I ever expected. Age brings maturity and experience.”
He also thanked critics who challenged him throughout his career.
“People have tried to bring me down for the last 23 years, but I don’t pay much attention to it. It’s all part of football. The Portuguese people have always believed in me and never stopped supporting me.”
The One Trophy That Eluded Ronaldo
Before Ronaldo’s arrival, Portugal had never won a major international title.
Over an extraordinary 23-year career, Ronaldo has scored 976 goals for club and country, won five Ballon d’Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles, one UEFA European Championship, and numerous domestic trophies.
The only major honour missing from his remarkable collection is the FIFA World Cup.
Ronaldo appeared in six World Cups, with Portugal’s best finish coming in 2006, when the team reached the semi-finals in what was his first World Cup appearance.
Despite never lifting football’s biggest prize, Ronaldo is widely expected to be remembered as one of the greatest players in history—and among the greatest footballers never to win a World Cup.
If he chooses to continue his international career, his next major tournament could be the 2028 UEFA European Championship, when he will be 43 years old.