Cristiano Ronaldo Says Portugal’s Euro 2016 Win Equals World Cup Glory

Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted Portugal’s triumph at UEFA Euro 2016 means as much to him as winning the FIFA World Cup after bringing the curtain down on his international career at football’s biggest tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, made his sixth and final World Cup appearance in North America this summer. He also became the first player to score in six different World Cups after finding the net three times during the tournament.

However, Portugal’s campaign ended with a defeat to Spain in Dallas, leaving Ronaldo without the one major international honour missing from his glittering career.

Despite winning five Ballons d’Or, five UEFA Champions League titles and numerous domestic trophies, Ronaldo never lifted the World Cup. His best finish came in 2006 when Portugal reached the semi-finals in Germany.

Speaking after Portugal’s exit, Ronaldo admitted the defeat was painful but said he had no regrets.

“It’s normal and sad to leave the World Cup like that,” Ronaldo said via TNT Sport. “But, as I said in the press conference, I gave it all, I gave my best.

“Yet, I left with a clear conscience. That’s football. That’s a footballer’s life. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. And you have to move on. The truth is, it was my last World Cup.”

The Portugal captain also reflected on his legacy with the national team, pointing to the success achieved during his era.

“How will I get up tomorrow? Exactly like I did today. With a clear conscience. I gave my best,” Ronaldo said.

“I won three titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano, Portugal hadn’t won a single title. So, I’m content.

“The truth is, what the national team won in 2016 [the European Championship] to me, honestly, it holds the same weight as the World Cup.

“That’s why I repeat: I leave with a clear conscience, I gave it my all. And that’s that. Tomorrow is a new day. And life goes on.”

Ronaldo, who also won the UEFA Nations League twice with Portugal, remains under contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.