Cristiano Ronaldo had already confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be the final international tournament of his career. Days after Portugal's heartbreaking elimination against Spain and the announcement that Roberto Martínez's tenure had come to an end, the Portuguese captain finally broke his silence with a brief message to the fans.

Follow all the FIFA World Cup coverage on beINSPORTS

Cristiano Ronaldo's First Message After Portugal's Exit

After several days without making a public statement, Ronaldo posted a short message on his X account alongside photos of himself and his Portugal teammates during the World Cup.

"Portugal Forever."

With those two words, the Al Nassr forward reaffirmed his commitment to the national team despite Portugal's elimination and the end of an era.

His message came on the same day the Portuguese Football Federation announced Roberto Martínez's departure as head coach.

"Before Cristiano, Portugal Had No Titles"

Speaking after Portugal's defeat to Spain, Ronaldo said he leaves international football with a clear conscience because of everything he accomplished with the national team.

He highlighted that he helped Portugal win its first major trophies and even placed the UEFA Euro 2016 triumph on the same level as winning the FIFA World Cup.

"Tomorrow I'll wake up just as I did today, with a clear conscience. I've won three titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano, Portugal had no titles. I'm happy. The greatest title I won with the national team was Euro 2016; for me, it has the same value as a World Cup. Tomorrow is another day, and life goes on."

With those remarks, Ronaldo closed the World Cup chapter of one of the greatest international careers in football history while Portugal prepares to begin a new era.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube