Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the current Saudi Pro League season may mark the end of his illustrious professional football career. The 41-year-old icon’s contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh, inked in December 2022, is set to expire next June, with Ronaldo expressing doubts about signing another deal. In an interview with Vogue magazine, Ronaldo stated, “This is probably my final year in football, and I aim to leave behind a remarkable legacy.”
A prolific scorer with 976 career goals to his name, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Ronaldo shared his post-football plans, saying, “I have my future all planned out. I have numerous pursuits to keep me occupied because football’s absence could create a significant void, requiring diverse activities to fill my time.”
He added, “I plan to have more enjoyment, travel extensively, engage in padel games that I adore, and continue relishing the fruits of my labor — our labor. It has been a 25-year journey filled with significant sacrifices.”
The ongoing 2026-27 SPL season marks Ronaldo’s 25th year as a professional footballer. Throughout his career, he has clinched five Ballon d’Or titles and secured five UEFA Champions League victories. Ronaldo’s remarkable performance last season, where he scored 28 league goals, propelled Al-Nassr to clinch the Saudi Arabian championship in May, marking his first title since joining the club and the team’s first league triumph since 2019.
Following his recent wedding celebrations, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s opening game of the season, which ended in a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh, observing from the sidelines. Coach Ange Postecoglou mentioned, “Cristiano’s presence is always felt within the team.” Looking ahead, Ronaldo is anticipated to feature in the King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday.
Ronaldo’s reflections on retirement coincide with long-standing rival Lionel Messi’s contemplation of hanging up his boots soon after his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, expressed uncertainty about his future in the sport, stating, “I used to solely focus on playing football, but now I am unsure if I will continue for much longer.”
