Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the ongoing season in the Saudi Pro League could mark the end of his illustrious football career. The 41-year-old football icon is currently under contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh, with the agreement set to expire in June next year. Ronaldo shared with Vogue magazine his belief that he may not continue playing beyond this season.
Expressing his thoughts on the matter, Ronaldo stated, “This is probably my final year in football, and my aim is to leave behind a remarkable legacy.” The Portuguese forward, renowned for scoring a total of 976 career goals, recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
Ronaldo detailed his post-football plans, saying, “I have my future all planned out. There are many interests that will keep me occupied after retiring from football. It’s essential to diversify your activities to fill the void that football’s absence might create. I look forward to engaging in various pursuits, including more leisure activities like traveling, playing padel, which I enjoy, and savoring the rewards of my hard work over the past 25 years.”
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 awards and secured five UEFA Champions League titles. Last season, Ronaldo’s exceptional performance of scoring 28 league goals played a pivotal role in Al-Nassr’s triumph as the champions of Saudi Arabia, marking his first title win with the club since joining in Riyadh and the club’s first league victory since 2019.
Following his recent marriage, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s initial match of the season as they began their title defense with a resounding 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh, with the football star watching from the sidelines. Al-Nassr coach Ange Postecoglou praised Ronaldo’s presence, emphasizing his importance to the team. Ronaldo is expected to potentially feature in the upcoming King’s Cup fixture against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday.
Ronaldo’s contemplation of retirement coincides with similar sentiments expressed by his long-standing rival Lionel Messi, who recently shared uncertainties about his future in football following his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, admitted feeling unsure about continuing his football career, stating, “I used to solely focus on playing football, but now I am uncertain if I will continue in the sport for much longer.”