Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that Portugal’s defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup was his final appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
The 41 year old made the revelation after Portugal’s 1-0 loss, saying he leaves the World Cup with a clear conscience, convinced he gave everything he could for his country.
Despite the painful exit, Ronaldo described the contest as closely fought, adding that Spain capitalised on a late opportunity in a game that could have gone either way.
“The match could have gone either way. Spain had a bit of luck to score in the final moments, but that is football. Overall, it was a very exciting and fiercely contested match.”
The veteran forward admitted he was heartbroken by the manner of Portugal’s elimination but said he has no regrets about his commitment throughout his international career. He also revealed that he would take time with his family before deciding what comes next, stressing that important decisions should not be made in the heat of the moment.
“I’m very sad to say goodbye to the World Cup in this way. But as I said at yesterday’s press conference, I gave everything, did my very best, and can leave with a clear conscience. This is my last World Cup, yes, but I will now have time to think and be with my family. Don’t make decisions when emotions are running high.”
Ronaldo reflected on his achievements with Portugal, saying he is proud of helping the national team win major honours and believes he leaves behind a legacy of total commitment.
“Just as I did when I stood up today, my conscience is clear. I gave everything I had. I won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal had never won anything. I am satisfied. The most important title the national team has won was Euro 2016, and frankly, for me, it carries the same weight as a World Cup. I say it again: I leave with a clear conscience, having given my very best. Tomorrow is a new day, and life goes on.”
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star insisted he would not allow discussions about his future to overshadow Portugal’s World Cup campaign.
“I won’t make a decision while emotions are running high, and I don’t want a personal decision to divert everyone’s attention from everything we did at the World Cup.”
He also maintained that Portugal had little to fault in terms of effort, noting that the team was knocked out by a strong Spanish side capable of going all the way.
“We could have done better, but we were eliminated by a team that will reach the final or come very close. I think it was a very exciting and fiercely contested match. We gave it everything we had, and as long as we did that, we have nothing to blame ourselves for.”
Ronaldo paid tribute to Portugal coach Roberto Martinez, describing him as an outstanding manager and person while thanking him for his contribution to the national team.
“What I want to say to head coach Martinez is that I have really enjoyed working with him. He is a great coach and a great person, and everything he has done for Portugal deserves praise. He won a title for Portugal. Many people do not value that, but Portugal had never won anything before, and winning trophies recently shows just how outstanding you have to be to win one for Portugal. I want to thank him and wish him all the best.”
Asked what message he would give to the young Ronaldo who first played at the World Cup in 2006, the Portuguese captain said representing his country with total dedication had always been his greatest motivation.
“Always give everything for your country, for your colors. Because that way, when it is all over, you will leave with greater peace of mind, knowing you have pushed your body as far as it could possibly go. Especially with the national team. I have a special feeling about representing the national team. For 23 years, with immense joy and love, it has always been an unforgettable experience. The final whistle? There were some emotions, but also relief and a clear conscience, because someone who has given their very best should not be reproached for anything.”
On reports linking Jorge Jesus with the Portugal coaching job, Ronaldo declined to weigh in, saying the decision belongs to the Portuguese Football Federation.
“These decisions are not mine to make; they are for our president to decide. This is not the right time to talk about who will take over.”