Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey ended in tears and applause, a farewell that blended heartbreak with reverence as Portugal fell 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16 in Arlington, Texas.

Mikel Merino’s header in second-half stoppage time decided a tense, tactical contest and sent Spain into the quarterfinals. For Portugal, it closed the curtain on the World Cup career of one of football’s defining figures.

At the final whistle, Ronaldo stood alone for a moment on the Dallas turf, eyes wet, before slowly clapping the Portuguese supporters who had followed him across continents for two decades. At 41, he departs the tournament with 27 World Cup appearances, second only to long-time rival Lionel Messi, but without the one trophy that always eluded him.

Ronaldo confirmed afterward that this was his last World Cup, though he stopped short of retiring from international football altogether. He spoke quietly, but with the conviction of someone who felt he had emptied the tank.

“I’m sad to leave the World Cup this way. I gave it my all, and I leave with a clear conscience. That’s the life of a footballer. You have to move forward,” he said, adding that he would now take time with his family before deciding his next steps.

His record for Portugal is unmatched: the all-time leader in international goals and appearances, a European champion in 2016 and a two-time Nations League winner. The World Cup, though, remained his missing piece, his best run a semifinal in 2006, his debut tournament.

“I’ve given my all. I’ve won three titles with Portugal. The 2016 Euros title is on the same level as a World Cup,” he reflected.

Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance came eight years after his unforgettable hat trick against Spain in a 3-3 group-stage classic. He finishes with 11 World Cup goals, tied for ninth all time, and as the only player to score in six editions of the tournament.

Portugal coach Roberto Martínez hailed him as “an exemplary captain” and “a role model,” praising not only his goals and presence in the box but his daily commitment and influence in the dressing room. “We’re talking about an icon in football,” Martínez said. “We have to be thankful for what he did at this World Cup.”