Cristiano Ronaldo, following Portugal’s tense victory over Slovenia in the Euro penalty shoot-out, has revealed his intention to retire from international competitions after this tournament.

The iconic former Real Madrid forward, known for his incredible career spanning 1,266 matches, was visibly moved when Slovenia’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak initially saved his spot-kick during extra time. Despite this setback, Ronaldo eventually contributed to Portugal’s victory in the decisive penalty shoot-out.

In an interview with Portuguese outlet O Jogo, the 39-year-old expressed his deep emotional connection to football and the profound impact it has had on his life.

He elaborated,

“I can say with certainty that this will be my last European Championship,” Ronaldo confirmed, reflecting on his decision to step away from the international stage after the tournament.

“For me, football is more than just a game. It’s about the passion I feel every time I step onto the field, the unwavering support of my fans and family, and the immense affection people have shown me throughout my career,”

Ronaldo emphasized that his motivation no longer lies in personal achievements or records but in the joy of bringing happiness to people through his performances on the field.

“As I look towards the future, it’s not about what more I can achieve in football. It’s about continuing to make people happy, which has always been my greatest motivation,” he concluded, hinting at his future endeavors beyond the pitch.