ARLINGTON, Texas, July 7: Cristiano Ronaldo bowed out of his final World Cup appearance in tears after Spain secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16 on Monday. A late stoppage-time goal from Mikel Merino settled the intense knockout clash, concluding the thirty-nine-year-old forward’s historic six-tournament World Cup career. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner maintained that he feels completely at peace with his international legacy.
The veteran forward stated that while the exit brings natural sadness, he steps away knowing he left everything on the pitch. He affirmed through an interpreter that he gave his absolute best and departs with a completely clear conscience. Reflecting on the volatile nature of the sport, he declared that sometimes victory eludes you, but life must continue, adding that he intends to spend time with his family before making any rushed future decisions.
The defeat means the legendary attacker finishes his career without lifting the World Cup trophy or reaching the final, with his deepest run occurring during his 2006 debut when Portugal secured a fourth-place finish. Nevertheless, his tournament statistics remain among the finest in football history, boasting eleven goals across twenty-seven World Cup matches. He shares the rare distinction of playing in six separate World Cups with longtime rival Lionel Messi, whose Argentine squad competes on Tuesday.
Beyond the World Cup stage, the Portuguese icon pointed to his immense continental success as the true measure of his international impact, including fourteen goals in thirty European Championship matches. He asserted that before his era, the nation had not claimed any major international trophies. He further stated that the 2016 European title holds the exact same personal significance for him as a World Cup victory, enabling him to look toward tomorrow with peace of mind as he prepares for his upcoming season with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.
