Cristiano Ronaldo has firmly responded to questions about his international retirement during a press conference at the World Cup, declaring that he will decide when to step away from Portugal’s national team. “I will retire when I want to, not when you want me to,” said the 41-year-old forward.

The Portuguese captain recently became the first player in history to score in six different World Cups after netting twice in his team’s dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in Group K.

However, ahead of Portugal’s round-of-16 clash against neighbouring rivals Spain, speculation has intensified about when Ronaldo will end his international career. The rumours gained momentum after he was taken off during Portugal’s 2-1 knockout win over Croatia on Friday.

Speaking to reporters, as quoted by Portuguese daily A Bola, Ronaldo said, “I always give my all—body and soul—for the national team. Whether I’m playing or not, I will continue to have an important role.”

He continued, “I’ll finish when I want to, not when you want me to. It’s pointless to keep asking that question. But I don’t want to focus on that right now. What matters most is the match against Spain on Monday.”

The veteran forward appeared visibly irritated by the repeated inquiries about his future.

The former Manchester United, Juventus, and Real Madrid striker, who made his senior debut for Sporting Lisbon at just 17 in 2002, has spent the past three and a half years with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Earlier this summer, he extended his contract with the club until 2027.

Portugal secured second place in their group behind Colombia, following a 1-1 opening draw against DR Congo, a resounding 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, and a goalless stalemate with the South American side.

In the last-32 fixture against Croatia, Ronaldo converted a penalty in the second half—his third goal of the tournament—before Goncalo Ramos netted a stoppage-time winner to seal Portugal’s progress.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Ronaldo said, “If we didn’t believe we could win the World Cup, we wouldn’t be here. It’s been a wonderful experience so far. We’ve improved with every game.”

He added, “We know that in a tournament like this, it’s impossible to play perfectly in every match, and it’s not easy for anyone—just look at the teams that have already been eliminated. The squad is calm, we’ve trained well and prepared properly. On Monday, we’ll face a very strong opponent, but we’re ready.”