Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced that the 2024 European Championship in Germany will mark the end of his illustrious career. This will be his record-breaking sixth appearance in a European Championship, a remarkable feat in itself. As the next tournament is set to be hosted by Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, Ronaldo reflects on his decision to retire at the age of 43. In an interview with Portugal TV’s RTP, he expressed, “Without a doubt it’s the last Euro for me, of course it is.”
Having made his debut for Portugal in 2003 and clinched the championship in 2016, Ronaldo is not just a prolific scorer but also a symbol of dedication and passion for the game. With 130 goals under his belt, he holds the title of the men’s all-time leading scorer. Ronaldo emphasized, “The most important thing about the journey I’ve been on is the enthusiasm I still have for being here.” His commitment to the national team and the joy he brings to fans and his family have been driving forces throughout his career.
Despite his unmatched success, Ronaldo’s mental strength was put to the test in a recent match against Slovenia. After missing a crucial penalty shot in the 114th minute, he experienced a wave of emotions and had to be consoled by teammates. Ronaldo’s response to the setback was one of resilience and determination. He stated, “You can’t be afraid, I’ve never been afraid to face things head-on.”
As the record goal-scorer in the European Championship, Ronaldo has faced challenges in the current tournament, unable to find the back of the net in Germany. Despite the frustrations of not scoring, he emphasized the importance of the team’s overall success. Reflecting on past experiences with penalty shootouts, Ronaldo highlighted the need for fairness in football. He mentioned previous losses on penalties but also emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
With Portugal advancing to the quarterfinals to face France, Ronaldo acknowledged the tough competition ahead. Despite the odds, he expressed a sense of determination and readiness for the upcoming challenge. He mentioned, “We will now have a difficult game against France, who are the favorites to win the competition.” Ronaldo’s commitment to giving his best for the team and taking on responsibilities reflects his unwavering dedication to the sport.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire after the 2024 European Championship marks the end of an era in football. His legacy as one of the greatest players in history will continue to inspire future generations. Despite the highs and lows of his career, Ronaldo’s passion for the game and his relentless pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on the sport. As he prepares for the next chapter in his life, Ronaldo’s impact on football will be remembered for years to come.