"Nothing I can say will change what happened. This is why I want to apologize along with my team-mates for not winning the trophy for Brazil," the Barcelona player said in a statement on his official website.

The 26-year-old star said he understood that fans worldwide were expecting him and his teammates to give a more spectacular display during the tournament.

"Many people expected a brilliant performance from the national team, and especially from me. But this was not the case," he said.

Brazil's reign as world champions came to an end after a 1-0 loss to France in the quarter-finals, leaving many dismayed at the tournament favorites' early exit.

"I am sorry we left the World Cup without being able to show our qualities and what we are capable of," the Barcelona midfielder said.

"I am sad because we put everything into it and wanted a different end to my dream of once more winning the World Cup."

Ronaldinho thanked his fans for their support and comments to his site, and then outlined his future plans for the coming months.

"I now have a month's holiday and I am going to rest my body and mind in order to be ready for next season with the Brazilian team," he said.