The Lonely Tear of a Legend: Ronaldo’s Frustrating Battle with Time

"Time beat him. The sands of time slip through our fingers, and it takes no prisoners. Undefeated, it marches on, and with it, so too does the career of footballing icon, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portugal superstar found himself struggling to make an impact in their Euro 2024 last-16 match against Slovenia on Monday, a reminder that even the greatest of athletes are not immune to the relentless passage of time."

Administrator

6 July, 2024

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An emotional scene unfolded as football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, embraced by his teammates, shed tears of disappointment after missing a penalty in extra time. This pivotal moment in Portugal’s Euro 2024 campaign could have secured their place in the quarter-finals, but instead, they had to rely on a shootout win.

The dejected look on Cristiano Ronaldo’s face as he misses a penalty kick for Portugal against Slovenia in the Euro 2024 Round of 16. Photo: Reuters

Minutes later, Portugal emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, winning 3-0. Ronaldo, the first to take a spot-kick, converted his attempt and immediately apologized to the fans before being overcome with emotion post-game. This display of raw emotion revealed more than just the sorrow of a player carrying the weight of his country’s expectations.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Jan Oblak of Slovenia battle for the ball during their Euro 2024 Round of 16 encounter. Photo: Reuters

The tears of the frustrated superstar, who expects nothing less than greatness from himself, signaled a player struggling to come to terms with his changing role. During the 2022 World Cup, Ronaldo infamously declared, “The best timing is my timing,” as he arrived in Qatar with his career in a state of flux, ultimately leaving Manchester United for a move to Saudi Arabia.

The five-time Ballon D’Or winner had set out to prove that he could still be a difference-maker on the international stage. However, he concluded that tournament on the bench, making little impact as a substitute in the quarter-final loss to Morocco.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts after a missed opportunity during the Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Slovenia. Photo: Reuters

That defeat left an indelible mark, with the image of a tearful Ronaldo sprinting down the tunnel seared into the memories of football fans worldwide. It was a sight that Portugal supporters were unaccustomed to seeing from their iconic player.

However, with the arrival of new manager Roberto Martinez, who entrusted Ronaldo with the captaincy and a leadership role in a youthful and talented squad, a new opportunity for glory presented itself at Euro 2024.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal displays a look of focus during their Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Slovenia. Photo: Reuters

Despite being a model of longevity and excellence throughout his illustrious career, breaking records and starring for some of the biggest clubs in the world, the 39-year-old Ronaldo has been a shadow of his former self during the past two weeks in Germany. Lacking the speed, explosiveness, and agility that defined his prime, the 2024 version of Ronaldo has yet to find the back of the net in four games at this tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring a penalty during the shootout in Portugal’s Euro 2024 Round of 16 victory over Slovenia. Photo: Reuters

In the match against Slovenia, as in the previous three games, his shooting was erratic, and his headers failed to trouble goalkeeper Jan Oblak. His teammates seemed overly eager to involve him, which disrupted Portugal’s rhythm and tempo.

Had he scored the penalty in extra time, Ronaldo would have become the oldest player to score in a European Championship. However, he was unable to beat the outstanding Oblak, and his miss only added to the mounting pressure.

Pepe and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrate their victory over Slovenia in the Euro 2024 Round of 16. Photo: Reuters

Nonetheless, manager Martinez maintained his faith in Ronaldo, selecting him to take the first penalty in the shootout. Ronaldo stepped up and delivered, helping Portugal advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face France. As the world questions whether Ronaldo’s brilliant international career is drawing to a close, there remains a chance for a fairytale ending for one of the greatest players of all time.