"You've tried to kill me for 23 years": Ronaldo lashes out at media before Spain clash

A fiery press conference

On the eve of Portugal's round of 16 match against Spain, Cristiano Ronaldo used his pre-match press conference at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, to settle scores with the media. Speaking to a packed auditorium of journalists from around the world, the 41-year-old captain switched between Portuguese, English, and Spanish over more than half an hour.

You have tried to kill me for 23 years, but you must have seen that it's not worth it, that it's a waste of time, yet you keep trying again and again.

He singled out reporters he believed disliked him, saying he remembered their faces. "The hardest thing about this sixth World Cup is talking to you, some of you who don't like me," he said.

Retirement on his own terms

Ronaldo confirmed that this is his last World Cup, but refused to set a date for his international retirement. His sister Katia Aveiro had previously stated that the tournament would be his final competition for Portugal.

I will end my national team career when I want, not when you want me to stop. We'll see when that happens, it's not the most important thing.

He deflected questions about his future, insisting the focus should remain on the match against Spain.

Defending his form

With 146 goals in 232 caps, both men's international records, Ronaldo is playing in his sixth World Cup. His place in the starting lineup has been debated after he was substituted in Portugal's 2-1 win over Croatia in the previous round. He has scored three goals in the tournament so far.

I am no longer the player I was, but I'm not so bad, I've scored three goals. What I've done throughout my career is continually adapt through the ages.

He thanked journalists for the criticism, saying it had made him "grow even more."

Eyeing Spain

Portugal faces Spain on Monday evening, with La Roja considered favorites. Ronaldo expressed confidence, predicting a victory. He also praised Spanish youngster Lamine Yamal, saying he had "an immense future."

I have the feeling that tomorrow we are going to win.

He stressed that the team's mission is to reach the next round, whether or not he scores.

The emotional high point

Despite the tense exchanges, Ronaldo described this World Cup as the one he has enjoyed most emotionally, citing the passion of the fans. He said winning the tournament, one of the few titles missing from his collection, would not fundamentally change how he views his career.

I will not be more Cristiano Ronaldo or less Cristiano Ronaldo if I win the World Cup or not. What age gives you is maturity, experience, appreciating the relativity of things.