Cristiano Ronaldo to critics after Champions League win: You're just 'jealous'

MILAN, Italy, May 31 (UPI) -- When Cristiano Ronaldo went goalless in the UEFA Champions League Final, his critics barked, despite Real Madrid's victory.

And Ronaldo said that if you aren't singing his praises and offering congratulations, you're "jealous."

"Only the jealous don't feel that," Ronaldo told the Telegraph, when asked about not playing his best in the final. "I don't care about that. I always keep the people who love me [close]."

"So this Champions League is for them, the guys who support me all the time, my fans in Portugal and around the world."

Ronaldo scored 16 goals this season, making him the Champions League's all-time leading goal scorer. His 94 career Champions League goals top rival Lionel Messi's 83 scores.

Despite the criticism, it was Ronaldo's post-regulation penalty kick that proved vital in the final score.

Ronaldo, 31, has scored 50 or more goals in six straight seasons. Last week he said he plans to retire with Real Madrid.

Following Saturday's 5-3 shootout win against Atletico Madrid in the final, Ronaldo will suit up for Portugal in an international friendly Thursday against England at Wembley Stadium.