Every time Cristiano Ronaldo laces up for action, he is not just facing his opponents. But it is also him going against the world! The latest Netflix docuseries Captains of the World features Ronaldo, sharing his thoughts before heading into the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Time and again, he has spoken about the intense scrutiny that comes with his stardom and legacy. This documentary was no outlier. The Portuguese captain emphasized he is also a human who is prone to mistakes. He opened up as to how the things he does lead to immense vitriol among fans and pundits.

Other than Ronaldo, five other national team captains, including arch-rival Lionel Messi featured in the docuseries. While all had shared their anticipations going into the World Cup, CR7 not-so-subtly remarked that criticism would follow him into Qatar as well.

Cristiano Ronaldo knows the world is against him

After a brief take on his prospects in the World Cup, Ronaldo spoke about the imminent criticism. “I’m not perfect. But everything related to Cristiano will always spark debate and criticism,” said the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner. As the former Real Madrid superstar expected, the backlash against him was immense in Qatar. Though Ronaldo scored in Portugal’s first match and became the first player to score at five different World Cups, what awaited the captain was nothing but a bumpy ride.

In Portugal’s next two matches, the then 37-year-old did not play full time for Portugal. Coach, Fernando Santos substituted him instead. Ronaldo, ‘the imperfect human’ capable of making mistakes was seemingly unhappy when coach substituted him in a match against South Korea. This disapproval, however, did not sit well with the coach and he benched the veteran in the Portugal-Switzerland match. Santos’ gesture indeed is a classic example how CR7 ends up facing flak for the least of shortcomings.

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The World Cup gave way to vitriol as Ronaldo expected

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence, Portugal had then demolished Switzerland 6-1 in the Round of 16. Given the landmark win, fans started to doubt if CR7 was necessary for the Portugal team any longer. Then came the Quarter final day. Then also, the five-time UEFA Champions League winner did not start for the team. However, we came in as a substitute later.

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But that was of no use as Portugal was playing a losing game. Upon the final whistle, the newly qualified semi-finalists, Morocco jumped in joy, sending Portugal home. A heartbroken Portuguese captain had then left the pitch in tears. Throughout the tournament, Ronaldo was in a rough patch. Since he was snubbed for few matches, rumors had it that CR7 will leave Portuguese team and Qatar immediately. But that was far from the truth. Amid such hellfire, he stood the ground till the last minute, even if it was to leave with welled up eyes.

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