Cristiano Ronaldo reaffirmed on the eve of Portugal’s round-of-16 World Cup match against Spain that this tournament will be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. The 41-year-old forward, a six-time World Cup participant and former star of Manchester United and Real Madrid, made the announcement during a press conference held at the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys headquarters on Sunday.

Ronaldo, known for his occasional playful exchanges with the media, engaged in a lighthearted moment with an Argentine reporter, recalling an interaction with an Argentine flight attendant during the team’s recent travel. He described how the attendant recognized his nationality by the way he looked at her, injecting some humor into an otherwise reflective discussion. “I want to enjoy what will be my last World Cup to the fullest,” Ronaldo said through an interpreter, adding, “Hopefully, tomorrow won’t be my last match. That way, you can keep bashing me some more.”

This reaffirmation follows similar comments Ronaldo made in a televised interview late last year, shortly after Portugal secured the UEFA Nations League title with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain. The veteran forward has often addressed his impending retirement from international football amid speculation from the media and fans alike.

Throughout the 25-minute press session, Ronaldo was frequently asked about his future and whether this would indeed mark the end of his World Cup journey. While sometimes taking a philosophical tone, he also injected humor, acknowledging the pressure from journalists who appeared eager to see him conclude his illustrious career.

Portugal is preparing to face longtime rival Spain in what promises to be a high-stakes fixture, with Ronaldo’s team aiming to progress beyond the round of 16. For Ronaldo, this World Cup represents the culmination of a storied international career that has spanned more than two decades, during which he has become one of football’s most recognizable and accomplished figures.