Cristiano Ronaldo addresses criticism at the World Cup, saying he is not the same player he was earlier in his career but insisting he continues to respond to detractors. Speaking on Sunday, Ronaldo tells reporters that people have been “trying to kill me for the past 23 years.” When asked again about his potential international future, he reiterates the theme, saying the ongoing attacks are not “worth it” and describe them as a “waste of time,” while adding that critics keep trying. The outlets reporting on the remarks describe Ronaldo’s comments as part reflection on his current ability and part rebuttal to ongoing public scrutiny. Both reports agree on the core substance of what he said: that his critics have allegedly pursued him for more than two decades and that he is determined to continue despite those views. Neither source provides additional context for who specifically is included in his criticism or details any particular prior dispute. The statements are made during World Cup coverage and framed as a response to questions put to him after the tournament matchups.