Croatia's exit came in unlucky circumstances, with two goals ruled out during the match, the last one more than 100 minutes in for a touch that went unnoticed by everyone except FIFA's new microchip-equipped ball.
Speaking after the match, Modrić addressed his club future, a subject that remains unresolved. The 40-year-old's contract with AC Milan was already coming to its conclusion, and he must now decide whether to continue playing or retire, and if he continues, whether that will be with Milan or elsewhere.
"Now is not the time to talk about that, you'll find out soon," Modrić said, in comments reported by Sportske Novosti.
Only Modrić himself can reveal his decision when the time comes, but his words leave AC Milan supporters with a degree of hope. Had he already decided to retire from playing altogether, he could have used the moment of Croatia's World Cup elimination to make that announcement.
The fact that he chose not to suggests he has not closed the door on continuing his career. As a player of his stature, Modrić was also reluctant to make the day of his country's biggest disappointment about his own future.
Modrić, who turns 41 in September, joined Milan on a free transfer in 2024 after a trophy-laden career at Real Madrid, where he won six Champions League titles and the 2018 Ballon d'Or.
He signed a one-year contract with the option of a further season, and his performances since arriving in Serie A have exceeded expectations, making him a key figure in Milan's midfield despite his age.
He started 32 of Milan's first 34 league matches this season before a fractured cheekbone, sustained in a collision with Manuel Locatelli in April, ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign. For now, though, the answer on what comes next remains something only time will reveal.