Cristiano Ronaldo erupts, singles out a reporter he dislikes, and launches a strong response about the 2026 World Cup being his final tournament.
On 6 July 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo, the star striker for Portugal’s national team, spoke at the press conference before the 2026 World Cup round of 16 clash against Spain, the marquee match of this stage, scheduled for 02:00 on Tuesday, 7 July Thai time.
When asked if this would be his last World Cup, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo replied, "This will be my last World Cup. I hope God will be kind and that tomorrow's game won't be my final one either."
"I lack nothing in life. God has always been merciful to me. Whether I win the World Cup or not, my identity as Cristiano remains unchanged."
Ronaldo also challenged Marcelo Beschler, a Brazilian reporter with whom he has a tense relationship, during the press conference, telling him to hand over the microphone and saying, "I know he doesn't like me."
Beschler then asked what the hardest part of playing in the World Cup at 41 is. Ronaldo answered, "The hardest part? Talking to you... to some of you, especially those who don't like me. I know you're one of those."
When another reporter asked if Ronaldo might not return to another World Cup, he replied, "You don’t want me to come back."
"You keep asking the same questions about whether this is the last time. We'll find out soon enough. I don't want to focus on that; it’s not the main point. The important thing is whether we advance to the next round."
"That day will definitely come, but honestly, no matter what happens tomorrow, I will leave completely at peace—not just 100%, but 1,000%—because I’ve given everything to football."
"I don’t worry about money; my life is comfortable. But this is about passion. I play football because I love it. Whatever happens tomorrow, I won’t pressure myself by thinking we must win. Whatever will be, will be."
"We have to enjoy the present each day, and I’ve already scored three goals. My performance hasn’t been bad, right?"
"They’ve tried to bring me down for 23 years. There’s no point paying much attention to that. It’s part of the game... People in Portugal have faith in us; they never abandon us and always support me."
"As for other matters, they’re just nonsense, unimportant. My life lacks nothing. God has given me everything, more than I ever expected."
"Getting older brings maturity and experience. I even appreciate the criticism and attacks because they help people grow. It has made me stronger, and I thank you journalists because those challenges have helped me grow to the next level."
