Cristiano Ronaldo has said he will take time before making any decision about the next stage of his career following Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Portugal captain confirmed that Monday’s Round of 16 defeat to Spain marked his final appearance at the World Cup but insisted he would not be rushed into deciding what comes next.

The 41-year-old said his immediate priority is to spend time with his family before considering his future in football.

Ronaldo and Portugal exited the tournament after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to European champions Spain in a closely contested last-16 encounter.

The result brought an end to Portugal’s hopes of progressing further in the competition and also concluded Ronaldo’s World Cup journey after a career that saw him represent his country on football’s biggest stage over several editions of the tournament.

Ahead of the match, the veteran forward had already disclosed that the 2026 edition would be his final appearance at the World Cup.

The Portuguese star has enjoyed one of the most decorated careers in football history, winning numerous domestic league titles, UEFA Champions League trophies and individual honours while representing some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

At international level, Ronaldo has played a central role in Portugal’s successes, helping the country win major titles and becoming its all-time leading goalscorer.

His announcement before the Spain clash confirmed that his World Cup career would end regardless of the outcome of the match.

Following Portugal’s elimination, attention immediately shifted to Ronaldo’s future, with questions arising over whether he would continue playing professionally or retire from the game altogether.

Although he acknowledged that his World Cup career had ended, the former Real Madrid, Manchester United and Juventus forward declined to reveal his next move.

Instead, he explained that he wanted to avoid making emotional decisions immediately after the disappointment of Portugal’s exit from the tournament.

The veteran striker indicated that he intends to take a measured approach before deciding on his future, stressing the importance of reflecting on recent events away from the spotlight.

Ronaldo said spending time with his family would be his immediate focus before evaluating the options available to him.

His comments suggested that no immediate announcement regarding retirement or his playing career should be expected in the aftermath of Portugal’s elimination from the competition.

He said, “It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll have time to think about the rest, to be with my family, not make rash decisions, and just get on with life.”

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