After leading his team to the quarterfinals, legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, at 39 years old, has officially announced that this will be his last European Championship. Despite his passion for the sport, Ronaldo declared that his biggest motivation now is to make people happy. This bittersweet news adds a somber undertone to Portugal's journey in the Euros, as fans come to terms with the reality that this may be their hero's final act on the European championship stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from European Championships
Legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the European Championship after leading Portugal to the quarterfinals of the 2020 tournament. The 39-year-old forward made the announcement following his team's elimination by Belgium.
Ronaldo, who has won five Ballon d'Or awards, is considered one of the greatest players of all time. He has represented Portugal at five European Championships, scoring 14 goals in 25 appearances.
In a statement released after the match, Ronaldo said: "It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from the European Championship. I have always given everything for my country and for the sport I love. But I know that my time has come to an end."
"My biggest motivation now is to make people happy," he continued. "I want to use my platform to inspire and motivate others, and to help them achieve their dreams."
Ronaldo's retirement adds a somber undertone to Portugal's journey in the Euros. Fans had hoped that he would lead them to a third consecutive title, but it was not to be.
Top 5 FAQs
Ronaldo retired from the European Championship because he felt that it was time to pass the torch to a younger generation of players. He also wanted to focus on making people happy and inspiring others.
Ronaldo played in five European Championships, representing Portugal from 2004 to 2020.
Ronaldo scored 14 goals in 25 appearances for Portugal at the European Championship.
Ronaldo's biggest motivation now is to make people happy. He wants to use his platform to inspire and motivate others, and to help them achieve their dreams.
Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. He has won five Ballon d'Or awards, five Champions League titles, and seven league titles. He is also the all-time leading goalscorer for Portugal and Real Madrid.
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