Cristiano Ronaldo stated that his Euro 2016 victory with Portugal holds the same significance for him as a World Cup championship, as he contemplated the conclusion of his World Cup career after the Round of 16 exit to Spain on Monday.
Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in Arlington, Texas, thanks to a last-minute goal from substitute Mikel Merino, concluding Ronaldo’s sixth and, as he has acknowledged, last World Cup appearance.
After the match, Ronaldo told reporters that the continental title he secured with Portugal ten years ago was as significant to him as football’s most prestigious award, which he missed out on throughout his international career.
“I’ve won Euro 2016, and for me it has the same dimension as the World Cup. That remains forever. Tomorrow is a new day, and we go,” he said.
He mentioned that he felt no remorse regarding the outcome of his last World Cup, instead highlighting his total trophy collection with Portugal.
“I will wake up tomorrow with the same mood as I did today. I did my best. I won three titles with Portugal; before me, it was zero titles. I can only be pleased,” he added.
Ronaldo confirmed the end of his international tournament career, stating prior to the match that this would be his final World Cup, although he didn’t clearly dismiss the possibility of future involvement with the national team.
“It’s been my last World Cup, yes… but now I will have time to think, stay with my family, and let life continue,” he stated.
He described being knocked out of the tournament with no lingering regrets, framing the exit as part of the nature of competitive sport.
“I’m leaving with a clear conscience. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.
“I’m sad now after being eliminated like this… but I gave it all, my very best.
“We played a good game; the performance was well done. We could have done better, but Spain is among the best; they will get to the final or close,” he said.
41-year-old Ronaldo finished his World Cup career with 27 appearances and 11 goals across six editions, without the trophy that remained the one major honor missing from his collection.
He scored a brace against Uzbekistan and converted a penalty against Croatia at this year’s tournament to finish with three goals.
His most successful run at a World Cup came at his debut in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals.
