Video footage has emerged of Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo bringing an impromptu interview to a sudden halt -- by throwing the reporter's microphone into a nearby lake on Wednesday.
The incident happened several hours before Portugal's decisive Euro 2016 Group F clash with Hungary in Lyon with a berth in the tournament's last 16 at stake.
The 21-second clip shows Ronaldo, surrounded by security guards, strolling by a lake with his team mates.
When the reporter from Portugal's CMTV approaches to ask if he was prepared for the game, Ronaldo grabs the microphone from him with one hand and pitches it into the water.
The 31-year-old Real Madrid forward has been under pressure after refusing to shake hands with Iceland's players following Portugal's 1-1 draw in their opening game and missing a penalty in their second group match -- a goalless draw with Austria.
Jose Delgado, a correspondent for Portuguese daily A Bola, told Reuters Ronaldo was frustrated by his poor performances.
"The hours before the game are always difficult for the players and I don't think it's a good idea they mix with journalists because things like this may happen," he said.
"Ronaldo has been anxious in the last few days because he didn't play well in the opening two games. Let's see what he can do against Hungary and if he can come to his usual level."
-
Cavaliers vs Nuggets showdown heats up after blockbuster trade
-
Thunder vs Lakers: LeBron James playing as Lakers miss Luka Dončić
-
Pistons vs Hornets recap: brawl erupts with 4 players getting tossed before Detroit victory
-
Barack Obama hails Seahawks Super Bowl win, calls defense ‘special’
-
Seahawks Super Bowl victory parade 2026: Schedule, route & Seattle celebration plans
-
Super Bowl 2026 live: Seahawks defeat Patriots 29-13 to win Super Bowl LX
-
Stefon Diggs family explained: How many children the Patriots star has and with whom
-
Where is Super Bowl 2026 taking place? Everything to know about the NFL showdown