Ronaldo vows to play on for Portugal, targets 1,000 goals

Cristiano Ronaldo says his critics tried to kill him 

Portugal's coach Jorge Jesus speaks during a press conference to announce the list of players for the next Nations League qualifying matches on the background a screen show Portugal's forward #7 Cristiano Ronaldo on the list of players at Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras on September 18, 2026. (Photo by Patricia de Melo Moreira / AFP via Getty Images)

Cristiano Ronaldo said he considered quitting international football after the World Cup, but confirmed he plans to play on for Portugal and hopes to reach 1,000 goals for club and country. Ronaldo, who is 21 goals shy of the milestone, accepted some critics are trying to “kill” him but is determined to carry on.

Ronaldo, who has won 233 caps for his country, captained Portugal in the summer at the World Cup, where they exited to Spain in the last 16. Asked if he considered walking away from international duty, he replied: “Yes, I did. Of course, I’m always thinking about my decisions, my future, the present also. I’m a thinker; you have to think. This is why you see me here now, it means I will continue.