Cristiano Ronaldo Signs Retirement After Recording Victory With Portugal
JAKARTA - Cristiano Ronaldo discussed the chronology of his potential retirement after setting a new record for the most international victories in the history of men's football on Friday, November 15, 2024.
Portugal beat Poland 5-1. Ronaldo contributed two goals, including acrobatic kicks, to ensure the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League A quarter-finals.
The win marked Ronaldo's 132nd win in an international match, surpassing his former Real Madrid team-mate, Sergio Ramos, who recorded 131 wins with Spain.
Speaking to reporters after the match, 39-year-old Ronaldo insisted on his focus still enjoying his football despite a shadowy pension specter.
"I just want to enjoy (my own). Planning to retire? If that had to happen, in a year or two, I don't know. I'll be 40 soon."
"I really want to enjoy, as long as I feel motivated, I will move forward. The day when I don't feel motivated, I will retire," said Ronaldo.
Ronaldo added that he had no intention of becoming a coach when he finally hung up his boots.
"I don't see myself managing the team, it's not in my plans. My future lies in other fields outside of football, although time will determine what happens again," he told ESPN.
Portugal actually still has one remaining match in Group 1 against Croatia on November 18, 2024 local time.
However, the acquisition of 13 points from five matches prevented Portugal from being evicted by anyone at the top of the standings.
In the final Group 1 match, Ronaldo will miss because he has to return to Al Nassr.