Cristiano Ronaldo makes career end admission after bursting into tears at missed penalty
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that Euro 2024 will be his final European Championships.
The Portugal captain set a new record in Germany as he became the first man to play in six Euros, but he now says won't be playing in the 2028 tournament in the United Kingdom and Ireland, when he will be 43 years old.
Ronaldo's admission came on a difficult night when he missed a host of chances in his side's last-16 clash with Slovenia in Frankfurt, while he burst into tears when Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak saved his penalty in extra-time.
Ultimately Ronaldo regained himself to score his own penalty from the spot, with Diogo Costa's three saves securing victory for Portugal.
Speaking to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo after the match, Ronaldo said: “It is, without doubt, my last European Championship.
“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.
“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.”
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez defended Ronaldo's emotional reaction, and said that the 39-year-old serves as an example for his squad.
Cristiano Ronaldo had a dismal night in front of goal
"When you see the only player who has ever played six European Championships, and he's got that responsibility, that desire, that belief... as a young man those emotions are incredible, for someone who has won everything and has experienced everything," said Martinez.
"He doesn't need to care that much, and that's why I thank him for being the way he is, for caring for the group, for being someone that, after missing a penalty - and you have to give credit to the goalkeeper - but he was the first penalty taker [in the shootout]. And I knew, I was certain that he had to be the first penalty taker, and show us the way to the victory.
Cristiano Ronaldo missed several chances
"I think we're all very, very proud of our captain, the dressing room was delighted with what he's done, and I think he gives us all a lesson that you need to live every day as your last one. You need to have real high standards, and never give up. Life in football gives you difficult moments and the way he reacted is a real example. We are very proud of him."
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