Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his sixth World Cup appearance will be his last.
Ronaldo confirmed this decision in a press conference held on Sunday, ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match. While he expressed hope that Monday would not be his final game, he stated that the day to retire from international football will come.
"Whatever happens [Monday], Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1,000%. Because I’ve given everything in football," Ronaldo said, according to ESPN. "I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day."
This declaration means Ronaldo will not participate in the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal is set to co-host alongside Spain. His World Cup journey with Portugal began in 2006.
At 41, Ronaldo continues to play for Al-Nassr FC in the Saudi Pro League. He has already made history in this tournament by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups. He has scored three goals in the current World Cup, including a penalty that served as the winning goal in Portugal's Round of 32 match against Croatia, marking his first knockout stage goal in the competition.
Ronaldo described the current World Cup as the most memorable, citing the passion of the people. "It’s been fantastic," he stated, per ESPN. "It goes beyond the pitch… This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most, because of people’s passion. It’s even more this time, I don’t know why. It’s been, emotionally, the best. I’ve enjoyed it very much."
Portugal is scheduled to play its next match on Monday, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake.