Portugal eliminated, Ronaldo makes statement on retirement
Following Portugal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup after a loss to Spain, Cristiano Ronaldo stated that he needs time to decide on his future with the national team. The experienced player said, "My conscience is clear, my heart is at peace," while announcing that he will not be ending his active football career just yet.
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In Portugal, which bid farewell to the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, Cristiano Ronaldo answered questions from the press following the match.
Speaking after the match played at Dallas Stadium, Ronaldo expressed that the elimination was a major disappointment for them.
"MY CONSCIENCE IS CLEAR, MY HEART IS AT PEACE"
Stating that no footballer wants to be eliminated from a tournament, the Portuguese star said that defeat is as much a part of the game as victory.
Ronaldo said, "Nobody likes to be eliminated from a tournament. But this is a footballer's life; sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. My conscience is clear, my heart is at peace."
WILL EVALUATE NATIONAL TEAM FUTURE
Responding to a question about whether he will continue his career with the Portuguese National Team, Ronaldo stated that he would not act hastily on the matter.
The experienced player said, "I need time to think, to talk to my family, and to analyze Portugal's elimination and my personal situation. I am waiting for the head coach to leave; he has already announced it himself."
"CRISTIANO WILL NOT RETIRE TODAY"
Stating that he will not end his professional football career, Ronaldo thanked the Saudi Arabian fans who supported him.
Ronaldo said, "I know they are by my side. They are all big fans of mine. Let them continue like this because Cristiano will not retire today."
The Portuguese footballer also noted that he did not give any speech to his teammates in the locker room after the match.