Cristiano Ronaldo Compares Euro 2016 Triumph to World Cup Glory
Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that Portugal’s victory at UEFA Euro 2016 means as much to him as winning the FIFA World Cup. The forward made these remarks following his sixth and final appearance at the World Cup, which took place in North America this summer.
During the tournament, Ronaldo became the first player ever to score in six different World Cups, finding the back of the net three times. Despite this personal milestone, Portugal’s journey ended with a loss to Spain in Dallas, leaving the coveted World Cup trophy still out of his reach.
Reflecting on a Stellar International Career
Although Ronaldo has collected five Ballon d’Or awards, five UEFA Champions League titles and countless domestic honours, the World Cup remains the only major international prize missing from his cabinet. His best World Cup performance came in 2006 when Portugal reached the semi‑finals in Germany.
Speaking after the defeat, Ronaldo admitted the result was painful but stressed that he harbours no regrets.
“It’s normal and sad to leave the World Cup like that,” he told 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 turned his thoughts to the legacy he has built with the national side.
“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.”
He added that he departs the international stage with pride, having given everything for his country.
“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 secured two UEFA Nations League titles with Portugal, remains under contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.
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