Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he will take time to consider his international future after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, a result that ended their hopes of lifting football’s biggest trophy.

Speaking to the media after the match in Dallas, the 41 year old expressed his disappointment but said he leaves the tournament knowing he gave everything for his country.

“I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this,” Ronaldo said.

Ronaldo Confirms His Final FIFA World Cup

The veteran forward confirmed that the 2026 tournament was the last FIFA World Cup of his remarkable career. However, he stopped short of announcing his retirement from international football, saying he wants time to reflect before making any decision.

“I gave it my all. I did my best, and I’m leaving with a clear conscience. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won’t be making any rash decisions.”

Proud of His Legacy with Portugal

Despite Portugal’s early exit, Ronaldo said he remains proud of everything he has achieved while representing his country.

He pointed to the three major trophies Portugal has won during his international career, emphasizing how much the national team has progressed.

“I will wake up tomorrow with the same mood as I did today. I did my best. I won three titles with Portugal. Before me, it was zero titles. I can only be happy.”

UEFA Euro 2016 Still a Career Highlight

Ronaldo also spoke about Portugal’s historic UEFA Euro 2016 triumph, describing it as an achievement that holds the same value as winning the FIFA World Cup.

“I’ve won Euro 2016, and for me it has the same dimension as the World Cup. That remains forever. Tomorrow is a new day, and we move on.”

A Historic World Cup Career

Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the FIFA World Cup with one of the greatest tournament records in football history. He became the first player ever to score in six different FIFA World Cups, finding the net in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026 editions.

He also finished as Portugal’s most-capped player in World Cup history, making 27 appearances and scoring 11 goals across six tournaments.

During the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo’s penalty against Croatia became his first goal in a World Cup knockout match, making him the oldest goalscorer in World Cup knockout history at 41 years and 147 days.

Overall, he is the second-oldest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, behind Cameroon’s Roger Milla, who scored against Russia in 1994 at the age of 42 years and 39 days.

What’s Next for Ronaldo?

While Ronaldo has confirmed that his World Cup journey has come to an end, he has not yet decided whether he will continue representing Portugal in other international competitions. For now, the legendary forward plans to spend time with his family before making a final decision on his future.

Regardless of what comes next, Ronaldo’s achievements have cemented his place among the greatest players in football history, with an international career that has inspired millions around the world.