• Source:JND

India speedster Mohammed Siraj shared an emotional message for Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal were knocked out of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Portugal’s campaign ended with a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, bringing Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance to a close.

Siraj, who has often spoken about his admiration for the Portuguese legend, said one result could never define Ronaldo’s greatness. He also thanked the football icon for inspiring people across the world.

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Taking to his Instagram story, Siraj wrote:

“No matter what happened today, you will always be my inspiration, Cristiano. A single game can never define your greatness. Thank you for inspiring millions around the world.”

The post quickly caught the attention of fans on social media and went viral.

Siraj Has Always Been a Ronaldo Fan

Siraj has never hidden his love for Cristiano Ronaldo. Whenever he takes a wicket, the Indian pacer is often seen performing Ronaldo’s famous “Siuuu” celebration.

His admiration goes beyond celebrations as well. During India’s Test series against England in 2025, Siraj had revealed that he kept a motivational picture of Ronaldo as his phone wallpaper before the final Test at The Oval.

The image carried just one word “Believe.” Siraj later said it motivated him before he produced a match-winning five-wicket haul that helped India level the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-2.

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Ronaldo’s World Cup Journey Ends

Portugal’s hopes of winning the FIFA World Cup ended after Mikel Merino scored a dramatic winner in the 91st minute to give Spain a 1-0 victory at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Before the tournament, Ronaldo had already announced that the 2026 World Cup would be his last. The defeat also meant that the World Cup remains the only major trophy missing from his glittering career.

After the match, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez confirmed that he would step down from his role. Ronaldo, however, has not yet announced whether he will continue playing international football.

Ronaldo Stands by His Euro 2016 Triumph

Following Portugal’s exit, Ronaldo said winning UEFA Euro 2016 means just as much to him as lifting the FIFA World Cup.

According to the Portugal captain, ending his country’s wait for a major international title remains the biggest achievement of his career.

A Legacy That Goes Beyond Trophies

Ronaldo leaves the World Cup with several records to his name. He is the only men’s footballer to score in six different FIFA World Cups and has won multiple trophies during his career, including UEFA Champions League titles, league championships in England, Spain and Italy, the UEFA Nations League and the UEFA European Championship.

For Siraj, though, Ronaldo’s impact is much bigger than the trophies he has won. His dedication, discipline and consistency have inspired athletes across different sports.


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