Following Portugal’s quarterfinal-round victory over Slovenia in the European penalty shootout, Cristiano Ronaldo announced his intention to retire.
The former Real Madrid star broke down in tears after seeing Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak save his spot-kick in extra-time – before scoring his second effort in a triumphant penalty shoot-out.
‘It is without a doubt my last European Championship,’ the 39-year-old who has played in 1,266 career matches said, via Portuguese outlet O Jogo.
‘But I don’t get emotional about that, I get emotional about everything that football involves.
‘Because of the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm of seeing my supporters, my family, the affection that people have for me.
‘It’s not about leaving football, because if I do, what else would I need to do or win?
‘It won’t be about getting one more point or one less point. Making people happy is what motivates me the most.’