Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that his World Cup career has concluded following Portugal's exit. At 41 years old the star forward remains undecided about his next steps in football.

After 23 years since his international debut Ronaldo's 233rd appearance for Portugal concluded with a narrow 1-0 loss to Spain in Dallas resulting in their elimination. He leaves as the sole player to score in six World Cups. Ronaldo expressed contentment equating Portugal's 2016 European Championship triumph to a World Cup victory and highlighting his era as the nation's most successful.

"I feel sorrow in departing this way yet I have always given my utmost effort" Ronaldo stated. "I depart with peace of mind. This is the nature of football and a player's life. There are victories and defeats. One must continue forward. Indeed this marked my final World Cup but regarding other matters time will allow reflection with family. Decisions should not be rushed in emotion.

"I will rise tomorrow as I did today with a clear mind. I poured everything into it. I secured three trophies with Portugal. Prior to my time the nation had not claimed a major honor. The greatest prize with the team was in 2016 which holds equivalent significance to the World Cup for me. Thus I affirm: I exit with tranquility. A new day awaits and life persists."

Portugal's coach Roberto Martinez commended the veteran despite his subdued performance. "I expressed gratitude to him" Martinez noted. "He served as an outstanding leader. Upon my arrival uncertainty surrounded his role but he exemplified excellence through goals and leading counterattacks. He stands as a model and icon in football. Few match his caliber.

"His ambition was to claim this World Cup achieved through exemplary conduct in the locker room" the manager continued. "He represents the pinnacle of the sport the athlete and the person supporting that athlete."

Martinez dismissed ideas of substituting Ronaldo in his last match. "When a team requires a goal removing him is not an option" he explained. "His physical condition allows impact in open play set pieces and the penalty area with his expertise.

"Extra time might have been suitable for introducing Goncalo Ramos' freshness. We needed to preserve the formation. It was not the moment to replace our striker and top scorer."

This loss also ended Martinez's tenure. "Disappointment is absent" he said. "Pride fills me. We matched one of the top teams evenly. The path to performing at this level brings great satisfaction. I take immense pride in our character and concentration."

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente praised substitute Mikel Merino's goal. "He is an outstanding talent" de la Fuente remarked "among the finest in his role globally. His display and goal were superb. I would personally escort him to the squad if necessary. Our bench players have contributed tremendously throughout the competition."