"This will be my last World Cup," Ronaldo stated during a press conference at AT&T Stadium, Texas on 5/7. He added, "I want to enjoy every day, every match, and I hope the game against Spain is not my final one in this competition."

Ronaldo currently holds the record for playing in six World Cups, a feat shared with Lionel Messi of Argentina. In the current tournament, he has scored three goals, making him the first player to score in six World Cups. He is also Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the competition with 10 goals.

Ronaldo at the press conference before Portugal's round of 16 match against Spain at the 2026 World Cup in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, US on 5/7/2026. *Photo: AP*

The Portugal captain highlighted that this World Cup is special not only for its competition but also for the global affection from fans. The 41-year-old forward expressed, "I have participated in many World Cups, but this will be the tournament I remember most because of the fans' love. This morning, I met supporters from Venezuela and Colombia. They shared their stories, many almost in tears when they met me. That is something I will carry with me after the tournament concludes."

Ronaldo also addressed years of criticism regarding his form and role in the national team. The Al Nassr forward admitted he still reads the criticism but is no longer affected by it. He remarked, "You have tried to 'kill' me for 23 years, but it hasn't worked. Some people like me, some don't; that's normal. I also have my own preferences. After 40, I've learned to see things more lightly. I know I am constantly attacked, but that helps me grow."

In the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo played all three group stage matches. During the round of 16 match against Croatia, he was substituted in the 81st minute with the score at 1-1. The 41-year-old forward affirmed he has always given his all since joining the national team at 18, playing a significant role whether starting or as a substitute. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner asserted, "I will stop when I want to, not when others want me to."

Regarding the upcoming match against Spain, Ronaldo acknowledged the opponent as a strong contender for the championship but expressed confidence in Portugal's ability to win. "We are improving with each match," he said. "No team can play well in every World Cup game. Many strong teams have been eliminated. But I see the whole team is calm, well-prepared, and ready to face a tough opponent. I really like playing against Spain. The team that performs better in the small details will win."

When asked about 18-year-old talent Lamine Yamal, the Portugal captain praised him but declined to focus on an individual. "Yamal has a bright future. However, Spain's strength lies in their collective. They are a strong team, and tomorrow's match will be extremely difficult," Ronaldo stated.

Concluding the press conference, Ronaldo emphasized he is no longer obsessed with winning a World Cup title. His best achievement with Portugal in this competition was a fourth-place finish in 2006. He declared, "I lack nothing in life. If I win the World Cup, I won't become more of a Cristiano. If I don't win, I won't be less of a Cristiano. I just want to enjoy every moment and give everything I have."

Hong Duy *according to Abola*