Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted this World Cup will be his last, defiantly telling critics they have “tried to kill me for 23 years” as he prepares for what could be his final game for Portugal. The 41-year-old, appearing at his sixth World Cup, spoke to the media before Monday’s last-16 tie against Spain in Dallas. “This will be my last World Cup; God willing tomorrow is not my last game,” he said. “You always ask the same question. I’m not doing too bad, right? I have scored three goals.”
Ronaldo, who has 146 goals in 232 appearances over 23 years, confirmed the tournament will be his international swansong. “I am not the player I used to be,” he said. “You have been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that is not worth it, it’s a waste of time. I [will stop] when I choose, not when you choose.”
“Cristiano Ronaldo confirms this World Cup will be his last, telling critics they've tried to 'kill' him for 23 years.”
His future had been under scrutiny after Portugal’s dramatic win over Croatia in the last 32. Ivan Perisic put Croatia ahead in the 53rd minute, but Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot – his first World Cup knockout goal – before coach Roberto Martinez substituted him. Substitute Goncalo Ramos then sent Portugal through in a chaotic finish, reigniting the debate over whether Ronaldo should start against Spain. “I won’t be more Cristiano or less Cristiano if I win the World Cup or not,” Ronaldo said. “God has been generous to me. The criticism is how you grow, so thank you for doing this.”
Defeat in Texas would end Portugal’s World Cup and Ronaldo’s international career. “Whatever happens tomorrow,” he said, “I will leave with a clear conscience – not 100% but 1,000% because in life and football I gave everything.”