Ronaldo Confirms Euro 2024 Will Mark His Final Appearance in the Tournament

Following Portugal's dramatic shootout victory against Slovenia on Monday, Cristiano Ronaldo announced that Euro 2024 will be his last European Championship.

The Portuguese star, who will turn 43 by Euro 2028, stated to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, "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."

Ronaldo's declaration came after Portugal's round-of-16 clash with Slovenia, during which he both missed and converted a penalty. Despite Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak saving his spot-kick in extra time, Ronaldo redeemed himself by scoring Portugal's first penalty in the subsequent shootout with a powerful shot into the side netting.

Portugal advanced to the quarterfinals against France after Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and goalkeeper Diogo Costa played pivotal roles in securing the shootout win. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continues to pursue his first goal of the tournament and aims to extend his record of 15 goals, the most in Euro history since his debut in 2004. He also holds records for the most tournament appearances (6), matches played (29), and assists (7) in Euro history.