Piers Morgan says he spoke to Cristiano Ronaldo just hours after Portugal's Nations League triumph and revealed what was said in their private conversation.
Ronaldo inspired Portugal to Nations League glory following their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain on Sunday.
Portugal replied twice as Nuno Mendes cancelled out Martín Zubimendi's opener, while Ronaldo equalised after Mikel Oyarzabal had put his team back in front just before the break.
The 40-year-old was forced off before extra-time but, without his services, Portugal beat Spain 5-3 on penalties as Diogo Costa stopped Alvaro Morata's spot-kick, with Ruben Neves converting the winning penalty.
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Portugal's second Nations League success had the superstar forward in tears as he cut a hugely emotional figure following the final whistle.
But it was tears of joy as Morgan revealed Ronaldo was 'so happy' after speaking to him following the showdown in Munich, Germany.
"Just chatted with Cristiano... he’s so happy.. no individual records/awards mean as much to him as Portugal winning an international tournament. (3 now, all with him)," he wrote on X. "He’s Portugal’s most-capped player & highest goal-scorer (138 in 221 games), and a national hero. Parabens!"
Cristian Ronaldo makes shock revelation after Portugal's Nations League triumph
Ronaldo was replaced before the game entered extra-time and speaking after the Nations League final, he said he came into the match with an injury.
But the Manchester United and Real Madrid legend battled through the pain barrier to start Sunday's showdown.
"I had already felt it during the warm-up, I had been feeling it for some time," he told Record. "But for the national team, if I had to break a leg, I would.
"It’s a title, I had to play and I gave my all, I went as far as I could. I helped with a goal."
On winning a second Nations League title with Portugal, Ronaldo added: "I’m so happy. Winning for Portugal is very special. I have many titles, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal.
"The tears and the sense of duty fulfilled. It’s beautiful. It’s our nation. We are a small people, but with great ambition.
"I’ve lived in many countries, I’ve played for many clubs, but when they talk about Portugal it’s a special feeling. Being the captain of this generation, it’s a source of pride.
"Winning a title is always the highlight of a national team. The future is about thinking in the short term. I had an injury and that was too much, too much... I pushed, because for the national team you have to push."
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Football
Nasir Jabbar