GUWAHATI: Cristiano Ronaldo's FIFA World Cup journey came to an emotional end on Monday, July 7, as Portugal were knocked out of the tournament following a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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The 41-year-old Portugal captain was visibly emotional after the final whistle, applauding supporters before leaving the pitch in tears as his final World Cup appearance ended in heartbreak. Spain sealed victory through an injury-time goal from Mikel Merino, ending Portugal's campaign.
Ronaldo had confirmed before the match that the 2026 edition would be his last FIFA World Cup. However, after the defeat, he said he would take time before deciding whether to continue representing Portugal at the international level.
"I'm sad to be leaving the World Cup like this," Ronaldo said. "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."
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner leaves the World Cup as the only player to have scored in six different editions of the tournament. Across his club and international career, Ronaldo has scored a world-record 976 goals, cementing his place among football's greatest players.
Although a World Cup title eluded him, Ronaldo enjoyed a glittering international career, leading Portugal to their first major trophy at UEFA Euro 2016 before lifting the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.
Reflecting on his achievements with the national team, Ronaldo said he was proud of what he had accomplished.
"I've won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal hadn't won a single title," he said. "The biggest title the national team has ever won was in 2016, the European Championship, which, to be honest, is just as significant to me as a World Cup."
"So for this reason I repeat, I have a clear conscience and I gave it my all- that's it. Tomorrow will be a new day and life goes on."
The World Cup was the final chapter Ronaldo could never complete. He conquered Europe, shattered goal-scoring records, and established one of the most decorated international careers in football history, the game's biggest prize remained just out of reach for one of the greatest players the sport has ever known.
#WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo's 2026 #FIFAWorldCup campaign came to a heartbreaking end after Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. He confirmed it was his final World Cup but said he won't make any rushed decisions about retiring from international football.… pic.twitter.com/GCIcO7XOMF
— GPlus (@guwahatiplus) July 7, 2026