Portugal Eliminated, Ronaldo Ends World Cup Career Without Trophy
ARLINGTON: The World Cup trophy remains the only major title that Cristiano Ronaldo has never managed to win, as Portugal’s journey in the 2026 edition came to an end in the Round of 16.
The 1-0 defeat to Spain courtesy of Mikel Merino’s goal in the 91st minute not only ended Portugal’s campaign but also marked the close of Ronaldo’s final appearance on the World Cup stage after six editions since 2006.
A day before the match, the 41-year-old forward confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his last appearance in the prestigious tournament, while stressing that he holds no regrets over his career journey spanning more than two decades.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez described Ronaldo as a football icon who leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, as well as being a leadership example throughout the tournament.
“We will always be grateful for all the effort he put into this World Cup. His dream was to lift the trophy and he fought by showing outstanding leadership as captain.
“This is not the time to talk about other things. He is a football icon. There are not many players like Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said.
Throughout six World Cup appearances, Ronaldo recorded 27 appearances with 11 goals. His only goal in the knockout stages came in this edition when he helped Portugal defeat Croatia in the Round of 32.
His best achievement in the tournament remains when he helped Portugal reach the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
At the age of 21, he scored the winning penalty against England in the quarter-finals before Portugal lost to France in the semi-finals.
Despite collecting numerous trophies throughout his career, including at club and international levels, the World Cup trophy remains an unfulfilled dream for Ronaldo.
Unlike Lionel Messi, who completed his career by lifting the trophy with Argentina in 2022, Ronaldo’s journey on the World Cup stage ended without a title.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente also paid tribute to the player, describing him as a role model for the new generation of football.
“I greatly admire him, the values he brings, and the way he approaches this sport. He is the best example for young players. Every time we meet, we respect each other and are proud to know him,” he said.
Although he failed to realise his dream of lifting the World Cup, Ronaldo still leaves behind a legacy as one of the most influential players in football history, with his records and contributions continuing to serve as a reference for future generations.
Media Selangor