Cristiano Ronaldo has fuelled speculation about his retirement plans after suggesting the upcoming year will likely be the final chapter of his professional career. The 41-year-old Portugal captain remains one of the most decorated players in history, having secured major trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and current club Al-Nassr since his senior debut for Sporting in 2002.
In an interview published by Vogue on Sunday, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner stated, “This is probably my last year of football and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.” Despite his immense success, the forward was unable to capture a World Cup title after Portugal fell short at this year’s tournament, leaving the sport’s most prestigious trophy absent from his collection.
Throughout a career spanning more than two decades, Ronaldo has amassed 976 goals for club and country. Reflecting on life after the pitch, he noted, “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 added that he looks forward to traveling, playing padel, and enjoying the fruits of his labor, stating, “After all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.” He will continue to play for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr this season as he closes in on the milestone of 1,000 career goals.
