Portugal’s World Cup run ended Monday with a 1-0 loss to Spain. And for Cristiano Ronaldo, that might be it. The 41-year-old forward has played in six World Cups now, more than almost anyone ever. But he’s never won it.
Spain midfielder Rodri didn’t hold back when asked about Ronaldo’s legacy after the game. He called him one of the best players in the history of soccer. And he pointed to Ronaldo’s mentality as the thing that separates him from everyone else.
“I mean, I don’t know, talking about Cristiano Ronaldo is talking about one of the best players in the history of fútbol,” Rodri said. “His mentality, the way he understands the game, always trying to score, always trying to be the best of himself, with I think with [being] 41 years old. It’s remarkable… His country has to be so proud of him to play six World Cups. It’s incredible and an example for all the generations that come before him.”
Ronaldo played 26 World Cup games across those six tournaments. He scored 11 goals and added two assists. But Portugal never got over the hump. Not in 2006 when they finished fourth. Not in 2016 when they won the Euros but couldn’t carry that momentum to the World Cup. Not now.
Here’s the thing about Ronaldo’s numbers: they’re ridiculous. Four European Golden Shoes. Five Ballon d’Or awards. The all-time men’s goals record in international soccer. But the World Cup trophy is the one thing that’s missing. And at 41, with Portugal eliminated, it’s hard to see him getting another shot.
What’s Next for Ronaldo
He’s still under contract with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League through June 2027. That deal pays him around $230 million a year in salary alone. So he’s not going anywhere soon. But the World Cup in 2030? That’s four years away. He’d be 45. Even for someone who’s defied aging like Ronaldo, that’s a long shot.
Rodri’s comments hit on something real. Ronaldo has been the standard for a generation of players. Kids in Portugal and everywhere else grew up wanting to be him. His work ethic, his drive, his refusal to accept anything less than the best. That legacy doesn’t disappear because he never lifted the World Cup.
But it stings. You could see it on his face after the final whistle. He didn’t do the usual post-game interviews. He just walked off the field, head down, while Spain celebrated behind him.
Fans online noted that Ronaldo stayed on the pitch longer than most of his teammates. He watched Spain’s players embrace their families. He stood there alone for a minute. Then he walked toward the tunnel and disappeared.
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