Cristiano Ronaldo’s final FIFA World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak as Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
Mikel Merino’s late winner ended Portugal’s hopes, leaving the 41-year-old visibly emotional after what he confirmed was his last appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
Despite the disappointment, Ronaldo refused to make an immediate decision about his international future.
Speaking after the match, he admitted the defeat was difficult to accept but stressed that emotions would not dictate his next step. “It was my last World Cup, but I won’t make any rash decisions,” he said, adding that he wanted time with his family before deciding whether to continue representing Portugal.
Ronaldo also praised outgoing manager Roberto Martinez, describing him as an excellent coach and thanking him for his contribution to the national team.
Few players have built a legacy comparable to Ronaldo’s. At club level, he has starred for Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr, winning league titles in England, Spain and Italy, five UEFA Champions League trophies and five Ballon d’Or awards.
He remains the Champions League’s all-time leading scorer and one of the game’s most decorated footballers.
Internationally, Ronaldo changed the course of Portuguese football. He captained Portugal to their first major title at UEFA Euro 2016 before lifting the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.
He also became the first men’s footballer to score in six FIFA World Cups while finishing as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and appearance-maker. Whether he plays another match in national colours remains uncertain, but Ronaldo’s place among football’s immortals is beyond debate.