ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo has once again confirmed that his sixth World Cup with Portugal will be his last. The 41-year-old football icon made the announcement during a press conference on the eve of Portugal's round of 16 match against Spain at the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys. Ronaldo, who has been a central figure in Portuguese football for two decades, reiterated sentiments he first expressed in a television interview late last year, shortly after Portugal's UEFA Nations League victory over Spain.

A Storied Career Nearing Its End

Ronaldo, the career leader in international goals with 146, has played in every World Cup since 2006. His debut tournament saw Portugal reach the semifinals, a feat the team has not matched since. Over the years, Ronaldo has become synonymous with Portuguese football, leading the nation to its first major trophy at Euro 2016 and later the Nations League in 2019. Now, at 41, he acknowledges that this World Cup journey is his last.

“What remains with me is the people — the people who love you. I share hotels with the staff, Latino people, and those are spectacular memories,” Ronaldo said, recalling a recent flight with an Argentine flight attendant. He joked that her subtle glance revealed her nationality, saying, “If you look away quickly, it means you don’t like Cristiano.”

Ronaldo’s playful banter during the 25-minute session contrasted with more reflective moments. When asked about his legacy, he replied, “There’s nothing missing. God was so generous toward me. He gave me everything I never expected to win, especially at the national team. And personally, the same thing. So it’s enjoying every moment. I’m not going to be more Cristiano or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup.”

Performance in the Current Tournament

Ronaldo has scored three goals in this World Cup, including the tying goal in Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia in the round of 32. His 11 career World Cup goals place him among the tournament's top scorers, though he trails Lionel Messi (20) and Kylian Mbappé (19). Despite the gap, Ronaldo remains defiant. “Besides some different opinions that you may have, I’m not doing so bad, right? You know, I scored three goals. Well, there are others that scored more, because they are doing incredibly well, but I’m not doing so bad. And I need to continue onward.”

Portugal’s round of 16 match against Spain is a rematch of the iconic 2018 group stage opener, in which Ronaldo scored a hat trick in a 3-3 draw. That performance, at age 33, made him the oldest player to record a World Cup hat trick. Now eight years older, Ronaldo’s role on the team has evolved. “What I have done throughout my career is to adjust to the nuances of age, knowing that I’m not the player I used to be,” he said. “But one thing I can understand very clearly is nothing has changed because I can still score a goal. I hope I do that tomorrow, and if I don’t, I hope others on the team do.”

The Opponent: Spain

Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, acknowledged the threat Ronaldo poses. “Not to say that we have to do man-to-man marking, but in certain areas of the field you’ve got to be aware that he’s there. He’s got the talent, he’s got the class, and he’s got the quality, and at any moment he can be decisive for the game. He can be the best. So we’re well aware of this.”

Spain enters the match after a strong group stage, but Portugal has momentum after defeating Croatia. The Portuguese team is aiming for a second consecutive quarterfinal appearance, having reached the round of 16 in 2022. The only time Portugal went deeper in the Ronaldo era was the semifinal run in 2006, his first World Cup.

Reflections on Rivalries and Legacy

Ronaldo’s rivalry with Lionel Messi has defined modern football. Both players have won multiple Ballon d'Or awards, and Messi’s record of 20 World Cup goals is a benchmark Ronaldo may not reach. However, Ronaldo dismissed comparisons when asked. “What remains with me is the people,” he repeated, emphasizing the human connections over statistics.

In the round of 32, Ronaldo faced Croatia’s Luka Modric, his former Real Madrid teammate, who at 40 was playing in his fifth World Cup. The matchup of two 40-something stars highlighted the generational shift underway in international football. Ronaldo praised Modric but remained focused on his own journey.

Between 2006 and 2026, Ronaldo has played in six World Cups, a record matched by only a few players. His longevity is a testament to his dedication, fitness, and adaptability. He has transitioned from a flashy winger at Manchester United to a prolific goal scorer at Real Madrid, then to a leader at Juventus, Al Nassr, and the Portuguese national team. His career has been marked by relentless ambition and an iron will.

Looking Ahead

As Portugal prepares for Spain, Ronaldo’s teammates have rallied around him. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa praised his leadership, while midfielder Bruno Fernandes noted that Ronaldo’s presence alone lifts the squad. “He’s our captain, our inspiration,” Fernandes said. “We want to win this for him.”

The match in Arlington is expected to be a high-intensity affair. Spain boasts a young, dynamic squad under De la Fuente, while Portugal relies on a mix of experience and emerging talent like João Félix and Rafael Leão. Ronaldo’s role as a starter is unquestioned, but his minutes may be managed as the tournament progresses.

Ronaldo’s announcement that this is his last World Cup adds a layer of poignancy to every remaining game. Whether Portugal advances deep into the tournament or exits early, his final World Cup moments will be watched by millions. “I want to enjoy what will be my last World Cup to the fullest,” he said. “Hopefully, tomorrow won’t be my last match. That way, you can keep bashing me some more.”

The press conference ended with a lighthearted exchange when an Argentine reporter asked a question about Messi. Ronaldo smiled and answered, “You’re Argentine, I knew it. But I’ll answer anyway.” The room laughed, recognizing the moment as a final act of sportsmanship from a player who has defined an era.

As the sun sets on Ronaldo’s World Cup career, his legacy remains secure. He is the only male player to score in six consecutive major tournaments (Euro 2004 to 2026). He has won the Euro, Nations League, and numerous club titles. But perhaps his greatest achievement is the inspiration he has given to millions. “I’m not going to be more Cristiano or less Cristiano because I win the World Cup,” he said. “I’ve already given everything.”

Source:MSN News