ARLINGTON, United States — Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo stated he will take time to decide his career future following a 1-0 loss to Spain on Monday, July 6, 2026.
Golden Info reports that the 41-year-old confirmed the round of 16 match at Dallas Stadium was his final appearance at the World Cup.
“It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll have time to think about the rest, to be with my family, not make rash decisions, and just get on with life,” Ronaldo said.
The leading scorer in the history of men’s international football addressed the nature of the sport following the defeat.
“That’s football, that’s the life of a footballer,” he said. “Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and you have to move on.”
Ronaldo said he departs the competition without regrets, citing his 2016 continental victory.
“The truth is, the biggest title I won with the national team was in 2016 (Euros), which for me is just as significant as a World Cup, honestly,” he said.
“That’s why, I repeat, I’m leaving with a clear conscience, at my best, and that’s it. Tomorrow is a new day, and life goes on,” he said.
Ronaldo previously reached the semi-final stage of the tournament 20 years ago.