Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement: ‘Probably my last year’

Cristiano Ronaldo looks to be in the final stage of his soccer-playing career.

The Portuguese star recently married his long-term partner, Georgina Rodriguez, and spoke to Vogue five days before his wedding about his future.

The 41-year-old played in his final World Cup this summer, which ended after Portugal was knocked out by Spain.

Now, the end of his soccer career altogether could be near.

“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo said. “I have my future all mapped out.”

Ronaldo’s current contract with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League ends in January 2027.

Part of the motivation for Ronaldo to hang up his cleats is having more time to spend with his family, he said.

“I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one,” Ronaldo said. “And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned — what we’ve earned. Because after all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”

Ronaldo is a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, starting his career at Sporting CP before playing for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus and, since January 2023, Al Nassr. In his career, Ronaldo has 976 goals for club and country, including a club-record 450 goals in 438 appearances with Madrid.