Portugal icon and captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the ongoing 2024 European Championship will be the last such tournament of his illustrious international career with the national team.
Ronaldo recently created yet another record in his career by becoming the first player to appear in six European Championships. This will no doubt be his last, considering that the next Euros will take place in 2028 in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland when he will be 43 years old.
The 39-year-old first appeared in the European Championships in 2004 when he made his Euro debut on home soil. Ronaldo has played in every Euro tournament since his debut and is the all-time leading goal scorer in European Championship history with 14 goals to his name. This incredible feat speaks volumes about his consistency, talent, and the pivotal role he has played in Portugal’s football history.
“Without a doubt, it’s the last Euro for me, of course it is. But I’m not emotional about that. I’m moved by everything that football entails, by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm I see in the fans, having my family here, and people’s passion. It’s not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win?” Ronaldo said as quoted by Portugal TV’s RTP.
Es imposible ver esto sin emocionarse.
— CR7STIANISMO🇪🇸🇵🇹 (@Cr7stianismo_) July 2, 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo nos enseña que después de caer, hay que levantarse y volver al mismo lugar donde nos caímos, perder el miedo. Porque solo así se llega al éxito.
La mentalidad del mejor jugador de la historia🐐pic.twitter.com/EyMh1QX2yz
This statement underscores Ronaldo’s pragmatic approach to his career and his recognition of his accomplishments. For Ronaldo, the journey has always been about more than just the titles and records. It’s about the passion, the fans, and the love for the game that has driven him for two decades.
“The most important thing about the journey I have been on is the enthusiasm I still have for being here. It’s 20 years representing and playing with the national team, bringing joy to people, to the family, my children, that is what motivates me most,” he added.
Ronaldo’s journey with the national team has been marked by numerous highs and a few lows. His dedication to representing his country on the international stage is a testament to his character and his undying love for football. Over the years, Ronaldo has been a source of inspiration for millions of fans worldwide. His work ethic, determination, and relentless pursuit of excellence have set a benchmark for future generations.
The striker is still without a goal from open play in the tournament and is aiming to become the oldest player to score in European Championship history, which he will look to achieve in the quarterfinal.
This potential record is yet another testament to Ronaldo’s enduring talent and his ability to perform at the highest level, even as he nears the end of his career. Scoring in the tournament would not only add another feather to his already illustrious cap but would also serve as a fitting tribute to his incredible journey in the European Championships.
Portugal will face France in the quarterfinals on Saturday, July 6 (Philippine Standard Time) in Hamburg in a rematch of the 2016 final, which Portugal won.
This Ronaldo knows, is going to be tough as France is widely considered one of the favourites to win the competition.
“We will now have a difficult game against France, who are the favourites to win the competition along with Germany and Spain. But we are going to war, this is football. The team is doing well, this win against Slovenia was a boost of energy that the team needed, and we will fight until the end,” he concluded.
This upcoming match is not just a game; it’s a battle of giants. Portugal’s clash with France promises to be a thrilling encounter, filled with intense moments and high stakes. For Ronaldo, it’s another opportunity to lead his team to glory and leave a lasting legacy.
As Ronaldo gears up for his last European Championship, it’s essential to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind. Over the past two decades, Ronaldo has not only been a phenomenal player but also a symbol of dedication, hard work, and passion. His records, his performances, and his leadership have etched his name in football history.
From his early days in Madeira to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time, Ronaldo’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His impact on the game, both on and off the field, is immeasurable. He has inspired countless young players to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.
As Ronaldo steps down from international football, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for the legend? While he has stated that this will be his last European Championship, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of his football career. Ronaldo’s love for the game and his competitive spirit may see him continue to play at the club level for a few more years.
However, his focus will undoubtedly shift towards new ventures and opportunities. Whether it’s in football management, coaching, or philanthropy, Ronaldo’s influence will continue to be felt. His entrepreneurial ventures, brand endorsements, and his presence in the media ensure that he remains a significant figure in the world of sports and beyond.
In conclusion, Cristiano Ronaldo’s confirmation that the 2024 European Championship will be his last marks the end of a glorious chapter in international football. His contributions to the game, his records, and his leadership have left an indelible mark. As we look forward to the exciting matches ahead, let’s celebrate the incredible journey of one of football’s greatest icons. Visit OKBET and sign up now to follow every moment of this historic tournament and beyond.
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