"Did you even watch?": Cristiano Ronaldo blasts critics upon World Cup arrival in USA

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese squad arrived in the United States today to begin their highly anticipated World Cup 2026 campaign in Texas.

At 41 year old, the legendary forward is stepping into uncharted territory. By taking the pitch against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston this coming Wednesday, Ronaldo will become the first male player in football history to compete in six different World Cup tournaments.

Despite failing to find the net in recent international warm up fixtures, the veteran firmly dismissed any concerns regarding his stamina and match fitness before boarding the flight.

Brushing off the critics

When questioned about his physical decline by the traveling press, the captain was characteristically blunt challenging reporters by asking if they had even watched his recent performances.

He acknowledged that the pre tournament training camp was intensely draining which directly caused Portugal's sluggish displays in their latest friendlies. However he promised that his squad would display their true championship mentality the moment the competitive fixtures begin on 17 June.

Ronaldo's fierce defiance heavily mirrors the legendary late-career push of Cameroon's Roger Milla.

During the 1994 World Cup, also held in the United States, a 42 year old Milla shattered the record for the oldest goalscorer in tournament history by netting against Russia.

Holding the absolute record for men's international goals, the five time Ballon d'Or winner is hunting the one major trophy that has eluded him to permanently silence his remaining doubters before finally hanging up his boots.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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