Ronaldo leaves Portugal future undecided, confirms he played his final World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he was heartbroken after Portugal's FIFA World Cup campaign ended in dramatic fashion against Spain, but the 41-year-old insisted he would not rush into a decision over his international future despite confirming it was his final World Cup.

Substitute Mikel Merino struck in second-half stoppage time to hand Spain a 1-0 victory in the Round of 16 on Monday, bringing Portugal's title hopes to a painful end. While the defeat marked Ronaldo's last appearance on football's biggest stage, the Portugal captain stopped short of confirming that he had played his final match for the national team.

LAST WORLD CUP, NOT LAST INT'L GAME

"I'm sad to be leaving the World Cup like this," Ronaldo told reporters after the match.

"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."

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The veteran forward also felt Portugal were unfortunate to bow out in such dramatic circumstances, insisting Spain needed a slice of fortune to find the breakthrough in a contest he believed could have gone either way.

"Spain had a bit of luck," Ronaldo said. "It was a game that could have gone either way."

The defeat ended Ronaldo's quest to win the one major trophy that has eluded him throughout an extraordinary career. Having scored three goals in the tournament, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner completed a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance without reaching the final.

FUTURE DECISION CAN WAIT

Even amid the disappointment of another World Cup exit, Ronaldo was adamant that he would not let emotion dictate his next move. While speculation over his international retirement is certain to intensify, the Portugal captain made it clear he would take time to reflect before deciding whether to continue representing his country.

"I don't make decisions in the heat of the moment," he said.

His comments leave open the possibility that he could feature for Portugal again, even though his World Cup career has now officially come to an end. For now, Ronaldo said his focus would be on spending time with his family before making any announcement about his future.

PROUD OF WHAT HE ACHIEVED

Despite the painful exit, Ronaldo was keen to remind everyone of what he believes is the lasting legacy of his international career. He pointed to Portugal's unprecedented success during his time with the national team, having captained them to the UEFA Euro 2016 title before adding UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025.

"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."

Whether Monday's defeat ultimately proves to be Ronaldo's final appearance for Portugal remains uncertain. What is certain, however, is that his World Cup journey has come to an end, closing the chapter on a tournament career that spanned two decades and cemented his place among the greatest players the game has ever seen.

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