Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken openly about retirement speculation and years of criticism ahead of Portugal’s World Cup Round of 16 match against Spain.
The Portugal captain admitted he is no longer the player he once was. However, he made it clear that he still has an important role to play for his national team.
The 41-year-old also refused to reveal when he plans to end his international career.
Ronaldo Says Retirement Will Be His Decision
During a press conference before Portugal’s knockout match, Ronaldo responded firmly to repeated questions about retirement.
He insisted that only he will decide when his football journey comes to an end.
“As I said before, (I will stop) when I choose, not when you choose, you always ask the same question.”
He also explained that retirement discussions should not overshadow Portugal’s World Cup campaign.
“I don’t want draw attention to this because it is less important.”
“I Am Not the Player I Used to Be”
Ronaldo acknowledged that age has naturally changed his game.
“I am not the player I used to be.”
Even so, he believes he continues making valuable contributions on the pitch.
The Portuguese forward noted that he has already scored three goals during the tournament.
His tally includes two goals against Uzbekistan during the group stage and another from the penalty spot in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the previous knockout round.
He added another confident assessment of his current form.
“I am not doing too bad.”
Ronaldo Responds to Years of Criticism
The veteran striker also addressed the criticism he has faced throughout his career.
He said constant scrutiny has followed him since he first entered professional football.
“It’s been like this since I was 18, it is not going to change.”
Ronaldo emphasized that his commitment to Portugal has never changed.
“I always put body and soul trying to get our goals — playing or not playing, I will always have an important role to play.”
“You Have Been Trying to Kill Me for the Past 23 Years”
Ronaldo also responded directly to questions about public criticism.
“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, but you try and try and try and try and try.”
He added that criticism no longer affects him.
“I am so used to this.“
The Portugal captain remains the leading scorer in the history of international football.
World Cup Success Will Not Define His Legacy
Ronaldo also reflected on what winning the World Cup would mean for his career.
However, he insisted that his legacy does not depend on lifting the trophy.
“I am not going to be more Cristiano Ronaldo or less because I win the World Cup.”
The veteran forward also shared how experience has changed his perspective.
“Age gives you maturity and experience to see how relative things can be.”
He even thanked those who continue criticizing him.
“I even say thanks for the attacks I feel after I turned 40… the criticism is how you grow, so thank you for doing this.”
Confident Ahead of Portugal’s Biggest Test
Ronaldo maintained a relaxed mood throughout the press conference.
At one point, he even invited a journalist whom he believed was critical of him to ask a question.
“I know he does not like me.”
He added with a smile:
“Listen, I am going to be honest: whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano Ronaldo will leave with a clear conscience — not 100 percent but 1,000 percent because in life and football I gave everything.”
As Portugal prepares to face Spain in the World Cup Round of 16, Ronaldo remains focused on helping his team progress. Meanwhile, speculation about his retirement continues, but the veteran striker insists that decision will come only when he believes the time is right.
