Cristiano Ronaldo has stated he will have no regrets following Portugal's 1-0 elimination from the World Cup, which marked his final appearance in the tournament.
Mikel Merino's stoppage-time goal secured the win for Spain in Dallas, ending Ronaldo's historic World Cup journey. The 41-year-old forward, who is the only player to have scored in six different World Cups, will conclude his international career without the sport's most coveted trophy.
"It’s been my last World Cup, yes - but now I will have time to think, stay with my family and life continues," Ronaldo said after the match, reaffirming his decision that this tournament would be his last.
Ronaldo, who led Portugal to European Championship glory in 2016 and to two Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, emphasized that he holds no disappointment about not winning the World Cup. "My biggest title with Portugal is Euro 2016. That trophy means the same to me as the World Cup," he stated.
After Portugal's elimination, Ronaldo walked alone down the tunnel, a scene described as eerily similar to his emotional exit from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Portugal was defeated by Morocco. While he managed to hold back tears this time, the devastation was evident.
Prior to the Spain match, Ronaldo had acknowledged that this World Cup would be his final one. "It's about enjoying it as much as possible," he commented before the round of 16 clash. "This will be my last World Cup, but let's hope tomorrow isn't my last game."
Ronaldo, who joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in 2023, has not indicated any plans to retire from football. He is currently pursuing the milestone of 1,000 career goals, standing just 24 away after scoring in Portugal's previous victory.
