Ronaldo Refuses To Confirm This Is His Last World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo dodged retirement questions again ahead of a huge knockout clash. Portugal faces Spain on Monday in the World Cup last 16. Ronaldo insists he will decide his own ending.

What Ronaldo Said About His Future

Ronaldo spoke to reporters on Sunday before the Spain match. He is playing in a record sixth World Cup at age 41. Many expect this tournament to be his international farewell.

He brushed off the constant retirement question directly. He said people always ask if this is his last World Cup. His answer stayed the same: everyone will simply have to wait and see.

Ronaldo added that he will leave football with a clear conscience. He said he gave everything he had to the sport. He called it a passion rather than something he ever needed financially.

How Ronaldo Rates His Own Tournament

Ronaldo has scored three goals so far this World Cup. He admitted other players have performed even better than him. Still, he said he feels satisfied with his own contribution.

He also said this tournament feels more enjoyable than his previous five. He credited Portugal's growing belief as the competition progresses. The team has improved with every match they have played.

What Makes The Spain Match Personal For Ronaldo

Ronaldo spent nine seasons playing for Real Madrid in Spain. That history gives Monday's match extra weight for him personally. His scoring record against Spain, however, remains fairly limited overall.

He has scored only four goals against Spain across his entire career. One of those came in a hat-trick during the 2018 World Cup group stage. That match ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.

Ronaldo's Prediction For The Knockout Clash

Ronaldo called Spain the clear favorite heading into Monday's match. He pointed to Spain's stronger overall trophy history. Even so, he said he feels confident about the outcome.

He noted his personal record against Spain stays fairly balanced. He has faced them around ten or eleven times in his career. He predicted the match will come down to small details.

Ronaldo On Playing For Portugal Going Forward

Ronaldo made clear he does not plan to stop playing internationally soon. He said this may be his last World Cup but not his last international match. He wants to continue representing Portugal beyond this tournament.

If selected against Spain, it will mark his 233rd international appearance. He has represented Portugal 232 times across his long career already. Few players in football history match that level of international experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this confirmed to be Ronaldo's last World Cup?

No, Ronaldo has not confirmed retirement from the World Cup. He said he will decide that on his own terms.

Q: How many goals has Ronaldo scored at this World Cup?

He has scored three goals through the tournament so far. He said other players have performed even better than him.

Q: What is Ronaldo's record against Spain?

He has scored four goals against Spain in his career. That includes a hat-trick during the 2018 World Cup group stage.

Q: Will Ronaldo continue playing for Portugal after this World Cup?

Yes, he said he wants to continue his international career. He clarified this World Cup may end but his Portugal career will not.