Cristiano Ronaldo has hit back at his critics, declaring that attempts to write him off over the past two decades have failed, as he reflected on his illustrious career ahead of what proved to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance.
Titansloaded reports that the Portugal captain made the remarks during a pre-match press conference before his side’s Round of 16 clash against Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he addressed persistent criticism surrounding his performances, age and international future.
The 41-year-old football icon admitted that he is no longer the player he was at the peak of his career but insisted he remains capable of making valuable contributions for both club and country.
“I am not the player I used to be,” Ronaldo admitted, before adding, “I am not doing too bad.”
The veteran forward pointed to his performances during the tournament, noting that he scored three goals in North America, including two against Uzbekistan in Portugal’s emphatic 5-0 group-stage victory and another from the penalty spot in the 2-1 win over Croatia in the Round of 32.
Despite constant speculation over his future, Ronaldo made it clear that only he would decide when to bring his international career to an end.
“It’s been like this since I was 18. It is not going to change,” he told reporters.
“I always put body and soul into trying to achieve our goals. Whether I play or not, I will always have an important role.”
The former Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star expressed frustration over repeated questions about retirement, saying the focus should remain on football rather than discussions about when he plans to quit.
“As I said before, I will stop when I choose, not when you choose. You always ask the same question. I don’t want to draw attention to this because it is less important.”
Ronaldo then delivered one of the most memorable moments of the press conference when he responded to long-standing criticism that has followed him throughout his career.
“You have been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that it is not worth it. It’s a waste of time, but you try and try and try and try and try.”
The Portugal captain, who remains the highest goalscorer in the history of international football, said he has become accustomed to criticism and no longer allows it to affect him.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also dismissed suggestions that his legacy depends on winning the FIFA World Cup.
“I am not going to be more Cristiano Ronaldo or less because I win the World Cup.”
Speaking on the lessons he has learned with age, Ronaldo said turning 40 has given him greater maturity and a different perspective on criticism.
“Age gives you maturity and experience to see how relative things can be.”
He added that negative comments have helped him develop both as a footballer and as a person.
“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.”
In a light-hearted moment, Ronaldo singled out one journalist whom he claimed had never been supportive of him and invited him to ask a question.
“I know he does not like me,” Ronaldo said with a smile. “I remember people’s faces very well.”
The Portuguese legend concluded the press conference by insisting he had no regrets about his career, regardless of the outcome of Portugal’s World Cup campaign.
“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.”
Portugal were subsequently eliminated from the tournament by Spain, ending Ronaldo’s sixth FIFA World Cup campaign. Although he has indicated that he does not expect to feature at another World Cup, the football icon has yet to announce his retirement from international football.
With more than 950 career goals, five UEFA Champions League titles and countless domestic and international honours, Ronaldo remains one of the most decorated and influential footballers in the history of the sport.
