Following Portugal’s dramatic victory over Slovenia in a penalty shootout on Monday, Cristiano Ronaldo revealed that Euro 2024 will mark the conclusion of his European Championship career.
“It is, without doubt, my last European Championship,” Ronaldo stated to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, as reported by The Athletic’s Ben Burrows and Jack Lang. “But I’m not emotional about that. I’m moved by all that football means – by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm for seeing my supporters, my family, the affection people have for me.”
The 39-year-old forward acknowledged that Euro 2028 would see him at 43 years old, leaving uncertainty about his future playing career.
“It’s not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win? It’s not going to come down to one point more or one point less. Making people happy is what motivates me the most.”
Ronaldo’s declaration followed Portugal’s round-of-16 clash with Slovenia, where he experienced both disappointment and redemption. Missing an extra-time penalty, he later converted in the subsequent shootout with a decisive shot into the side netting.
Portugal’s victory secured a quarterfinal meeting with France, with Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva also converting penalties, and goalkeeper Diogo Costa denying all three of Slovenia’s attempts.
Throughout his illustrious Euro career, Ronaldo continues to pursue his first goal of the tournament, aiming to extend his record of 15 goals since his debut in 2004. He presently holds the records for most appearances (6), matches played (29), and assists (7) in Euro history.
