In the 2026 World Cup Round of 16, Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal will face their Iberian rivals Spain. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ronaldo confirmed that this tournament will be his last World Cup appearance, expressing his hope that tomorrow won't be his final game.
At 41, Ronaldo has participated in six World Cups: 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026. He scored in the group stage match against Uzbekistan, becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups. He also converted a penalty in the Round of 32, securing his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal.
Now in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo is prioritizing enjoyment above all else. "This will be my most memorable World Cup because of the passion of the people. This time, the passion is even stronger, and I don't know why. Emotionally, this is the best one. I'm really enjoying it."
With the end of his international career potentially imminent, he emphasized that regardless of the outcome against Spain, he has given everything. "One day I will retire from the national team. But to be honest, no matter what happens tomorrow, Cristiano can leave with a clear conscience — not 100%, but 1,000%. Because I have given everything to football. I don't need to retire; my life is great, but this is about passion. I play because I love it, and I must enjoy every day." He also mentioned that for the past 23 years, there have been voices trying to silence him, but he no longer cares about the criticism.
Even if his career ultimately lacks a World Cup winner's medal, Ronaldo said he can accept that. "I have everything in my life. If I win the World Cup, it won't make me more Cristiano, nor would I become a different Cristiano. We have the quality to win it, but in the end, only one nation can lift the trophy."
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