Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the current Saudi Pro League season could mark the end of his illustrious football career. At 41 years old, the renowned player’s contract with Al-Nassr, based in Riyadh and inked in December 2022, is set to expire next June, with Ronaldo indicating that another season is improbable.
In an interview with Vogue magazine, Ronaldo expressed, “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.” The Portuguese forward, known for scoring a remarkable 976 career goals, recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
Ronaldo disclosed his future plans, stating, “I have my future all mapped out. 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.”
As he looks ahead, Ronaldo emphasized his intentions to have more fun, travel extensively, engage in his favorite sport, padel, and continue to relish the rewards of his hard-earned success. Recalling his quarter-century journey in football, he acknowledged the sacrifices made along the way.
The ongoing 2026-27 SPL season marks Ronaldo’s 25th year as a professional player. Throughout his career, he has clinched five Ballon d’Or accolades and five UEFA Champions League titles. Notably, his impressive performance with 28 league goals last season propelled Al-Nassr to claim the Saudi Arabian championship in May, securing his first trophy since joining the Riyadh-based club and the team’s first league title since 2019.
Following his recent wedding, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s initial match in defense of their title, observing from the sidelines as the team secured a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou expressed Ronaldo’s continual support, affirming his presence with the team.
Looking ahead, Ronaldo is anticipated to feature in the upcoming King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday. Postecoglou highlighted the importance of recovery, especially with limited time between matches.
Ronaldo’s contemplation of retirement aligns with a similar sentiment expressed by his longtime rival Lionel Messi, who recently hinted at the possibility of retiring following his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, shared his uncertainty about his future in football, reflecting on the evolving dynamics of his career.