Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that this will be his last World Cup ahead of the round of 16 clash against Spain. Ronaldo, 41, is currently taking part in his sixth World Cup, which is the most for any player, along with long-time rival Lionel Messi.
The talismanic striker became the first player in the football history to score in six different FIFA World Cups after he scored a brace against Uzbekistan. The forward also became the second oldest to score in the World Cup
Ronaldo scored his first World Cup knockout goal from a penalty spot against Croatia.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” Ronaldo said toward the end of a prematch news conference Sunday. “This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”
“The day will come [when I retire from international football]. But I’ll be honest. Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in football. I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it… You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals [at this World Cup], I’m not doing too badly, right?”
The veteran said he has had a fantastic experience of playing in the ongoing quadrennial tournament.
“It’s been fantastic,” he said, when asked about his experience at this tournament. “It goes beyond the pitch… This is the World Cup I’ll remember the most, because of people’s passion. It’s even more this time, I don’t know why. It’s been, emotionally, the best. I’ve enjoyed it very much.”
Ronaldo, who has an impressive footballing resume, expressed his satisfaction and gratitude after achieving almost everything in the books.
“I’m not lacking anything in life,” he said. “I’m not going to be more, or less, Cristiano because I win the World Cup. We have the qualities to win, but only one country can win it… Age gives you maturity and experience.
“I’m thankful even for the attacks I receive, turning 40 — and I hope to live another 40 years — with the criticism, that’s how you grow the most as a person, and I thank you journalists for that.”
Portugal will take on Spain on Monday, and it is expected to be a mouth-watering contest.
