Sport
Cristiano Ronaldo drops retirement hint after scoring a brace in Portugal’s win
Cristiano Ronaldo once again hinted at his retirement after his last appearance for Portugal.
Ronaldo, 39, is one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game, with the Portuguese superstar scoring more than 900 goals in his career.
The forward has represented Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr in an illustrious career dating back to 2002.
Ronaldo – who has also won the Ballon d'Or five times – took his international goals tally to 135 in 215 appearances with a brace during Portugal's 5-1 victory over Poland in the Nations League on Friday.
He emphasized afterwards that his focus remains on football, despite his retirement depending on his motivation level as he approaches his 40s.
'I just want to enjoy myself [myself]' said Ronaldo. 'Pension plans? whether it should happen, in one or two years… I don't know. I'm turning 40 soon.
'I really want to enjoy myself, as long as I am motivated, I will continue. The day I don't feel motivated, I'll retire.'
Ronaldo also added that he has no plans to move into management once he spends time on his career.
He said: 'I don't see myself managing a team; that's not in my plans. My future lies in other areas outside of football, although time will tell what will happen.”
Ronaldo scored his first goal of the evening against Portugal from the penalty spot to give Portugal a two-goal cushion, but it was his second goal that stunned those at the Estadio do Dragao.
Portugal attacked along the edge of the Polish penalty area in the final few minutes of regular time before a quick one-two gave PSG midfielder Vitinha space to work a pass across goal.
His pinpoint cross was perfectly weighted and found Ronaldo in acres of space at the back post, and the superstar striker did his duty by rising into the air and making a stunning connection.
Ronaldo had to generate most of the power himself as Neto's cross floated into the air, but executed his effort perfectly, sending the ball back across goal and into the bottom corner with goalkeeper Marcin Bulka stranded.
The 50,000-seat stadium exploded as the ball settled in the back of the net and a stunned Ronaldo sprinted off to celebrate, hitting his iconic siuuu celebration and pumping his fists before being mobbed by teammates.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao and Chelsea's Pedro Neto were also on the scoresheet in the emphatic win.