Ronaldo commits to Portugal future as he eyes 1,000 career goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed he intends to keep playing for Portugal, revealing that he seriously considered stepping away from international football following this summer's World Cup, according to Guardian Sport.

Speaking in Lisbon, Ronaldo said he weighed the decision carefully before opting to carry on with the national team he has represented 233 times.

Asked directly whether he had thought about walking away from international duty, he said: "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."

Ronaldo captained Portugal at the World Cup this summer, where the team's run ended in the last 16 against Spain.

The forward is now 21 goals short of reaching 1,000 for club and country combined, a target he has confirmed he is pursuing at the age of 41.

He also addressed the scrutiny that has followed him, acknowledging that some critics are effectively trying to “kill” him, while insisting he remains determined to keep going regardless.

Portugal's head coach, Jorge Jesus, offered a strong public defence of Ronaldo, according to Guardian Sport, though the specifics of his remarks were not detailed beyond that support for the veteran forward.

With Ronaldo committed to continuing his international career, attention now turns to Portugal's upcoming fixtures as he looks to close the gap on the 1,000-goal landmark while still leading the side at the top level.