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Xtra Time Web Desk: Cristiano Ronaldo, is competing in his 11th major international tournament this summer at Euro 2024, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career. However, Ronaldo has announced that this will be his last European Championship, adding an emotional weight to his performance.

During the group stage match against Slovenia on June 1st, Ronaldo experienced a heart-wrenching moment. After missing a crucial penalty, both he and his mother were seen in tears, a poignant display of the emotional bonds in football. Despite his best efforts, including several free-kick attempts and near-misses, Ronaldo’s penalty in extra-time was saved by Slovenia's Jan Oblak.

Read More: Euro Cup 2024: Is Ronaldo’s career shadowed forever since the defeat in World Cup 2022?

Reflecting on the moment, Ronaldo told Teledeporte about his mixed emotions: “Initial sadness and joy at the end, that’s what football gives you. These are inexplicable moments. I had the chance to put the national team ahead and I didn’t manage it. Oblak made a good save. I had to review the penalty, I don’t know if I shot well or badly, but during the year I didn’t miss a single time and when I needed it most, Oblak saved it. The most important thing is to enjoy qualifying, the team did an extraordinary job, we fought until the end and if you analyse the match well, Portugal deserved it because they had more chances.”

Despite this setback, Ronaldo showed resilience. In the ensuing penalty shootout, he successfully converted his kick, contributing to Portugal’s 3-0 win, secured by three saves from Diogo Costa.

Read More: Euro Cup 2024: Diogo Costa’s hattrick saves in the penalty helps Portugal defeat Slovenia to reach quarter finals!

Acknowledging the end of an era, Ronaldo said, “It’s certainly my last Euro. But I’m not moved by that, I’m moved by everything that football entails. The enthusiasm I have for the game, the excitement of seeing my fans, and my family, the affection that people have for me. It’s not because I’m leaving football, because if I do, what else is there for me to do or win? It’s not going to come down to one more point or one less point. Making people happy is what motivates me the most.”

At 38, Ronaldo remains a force in football. He scored 50 goals for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in the 2023-24 season, showing no signs of slowing down. There are even rumors of him aiming for the 2026 World Cup, indicating that while his European Championship journey may be ending, his football career is far from over.