Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed speculation about his international future as a 'waste of time', insisting his full focus is on Portugal's upcoming World Cup round of 16 match against Spain. The 41-year-old forward, competing at his record-equalling sixth World Cup, responded after his sister Katia Aveiro claimed this tournament would be his 'last dance' for the national team.
Ronaldo's Sister Fuels Retirement Rumours
Speaking to Portuguese media before Portugal's victory over Croatia, Katia Aveiro said: 'We have to enjoy these moments. It's the last dance for two players [Ronaldo and Luka Modric], both for Croatia and for Portugal.' She added: 'From the information I have, they can say goodbye. Enjoy it while it lasts. It's not today that they're saying goodbye, but it's soon. I believe this is their farewell.'
Aveiro, referencing a 'reliable source', claimed Ronaldo would retire from international duty after the World Cup. She also defended her brother against critics, stating: 'For intelligent people, those who like football have to like Ronaldo. Those who don't like Ronaldo don't like football.'
Ronaldo's Response: 'I'll Finish When I Want To'
When asked about retirement during a press conference ahead of the Spain match, Ronaldo was unequivocal. 'I'm always committed, body and soul, to helping the national team,' he said. 'Whether I'm playing or not, I'll always have an important role. I'll finish when I want to, not when you want me to. It's a waste of time to keep asking that question. But I don't want to draw attention to that. The most important thing is tomorrow.'
Ronaldo also addressed criticism of his performances, which he previously labelled 'very harsh' after Portugal's group stage match against DR Congo. Despite calls from fans and pundits for him to be dropped, manager Roberto Martinez is expected to start Ronaldo in the crucial knockout fixture in Dallas.
Portugal's World Cup Ambitions
Ronaldo expressed confidence in Portugal's preparation for the Spain clash. 'We've improved game by game. We know it's a competition where it's impossible to play well in every game, and it's not easy for anyone; just look at who's already been eliminated,' he said. 'I see the team as calm; we've trained well, we've prepared well. Tomorrow we'll face a super difficult team, but we're ready.'
The winner of Portugal vs Spain will face either Belgium or the USA, co-hosts of the tournament, in the quarter-finals. Portugal have reached the World Cup semi-finals only twice in their history – in 1966 and 2006 – and are aiming for a first-ever final appearance this summer. Ronaldo added: 'If we didn't have the idea that we could win the World Cup, we wouldn't be here. It's been a beautiful experience.'
