Mumbai

Hours after Cristiano Ronaldo's emotional Instagram post following Portugal's exit from the FIFA World Cup, former India Cricket team captain Virat Kohli has come out in support of the star footballer.

Ronaldo's chance to win a World Cup title at the FIFA World Cup 2022 may have been his last, and the 37-year-old left empty-handed after Portugal's elimination from the competition.

No trophy or victory, in Kohli's opinion, can undo the good he has done for the sport and for fans all over the world. Kohli claimed Ronaldo is the "greatest of all time" and said the star footballer has inspired millions across the globe.

(1/2) No trophy or any title can take anything away from what you’ve done in this sport and for sports fans around the world. No title can explain the impact you’ve had on people and what I and so many around the world feel when we watch you play. That’s a gift from god. pic.twitter.com/inKW0rkkpq

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 12, 2022

One day after the heartbreaking loss, Ronaldo opened up on Instagram for the first time on Sunday. He praised Qatar, the World Cup host nation, and Portugal and stated the dream was enjoyable while it lasted.

During Portugal's Round of 16 match against Switzerland, Ronaldo was suddenly benched, but the team didn't live to regret it after a resounding 6-1 victory. It was evident that he was nearing the end of his career as a professional football player.

He was also removed from the starting lineup in the quarterfinal against Morocco, and despite coming back into the game six minutes into the second half, he had no effect on the outcome of the match.

The Moroccan defence stifled him and his teammates, despite the fact that he entered the game in the 51st minute for his 196th Portugal appearance. Morocco was so dominant that it only let Portugal have three shots on goal.

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With 196 appearances for Portugal, the forward is now tied for the most men's international appearances.