Ronaldo stands by Portugal after World Cup exit, says no ‘rash decisions’ on international future

USA: Cristiano Ronaldo reaffirmed his commitment to Portugal despite mounting speculation over his international future following the team’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 defeat to Spain.

Having announced before the tournament that the 2026 World Cup would be his last, the Portuguese captain left the pitch in tears after a late strike from Mikel Merino ended Portugal’s campaign. Shortly after the defeat, Ronaldo posted a photo of the team huddled together on Instagram with the caption, “Portugal Sempre” (“Portugal Forever”), underlining his unwavering support for the national side.

Speaking after the match, the football icon insisted he would not make any hasty decisions about continuing his international career, saying that although his World Cup journey has come to an end, he would take time before deciding on his future with Portugal.