Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Retirement After His Final World Cup, Says Soccer Has Been ‘a Lot of Sacrifice’

Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned soccer star, alluded to potentially retiring from the sport in a recent Vogue interview. The 41-year-old, who is a father of five, told the magazine that this could be his last year playing soccer, stating, “This is probably my last year of [soccer], and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.” The interview took place just five days before Ronaldo married his longtime partner, Georgina Rodríguez.

During the interview, Ronaldo hinted at what his post-soccer life might entail, saying, “I have my future all mapped out.” He elaborated, “I have so many things to keep me busy, that to tell you just one thing is hard.” Ronaldo mentioned that he plans to fill his time with various activities, including traveling, playing padel, and enjoying the fruits of his labor.

Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr, a Saudi Arabian professional sports club, is set to expire in June 2027. The sports legend, who has been with the club since 2023, previously announced that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance in the tournament. He said, “It’s about enjoying it as much as possible. This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”

This is Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance. While the sports star has enjoyed a successful career spanning over two decades, he acknowledged the sacrifices made along the way, saying, “Because [soccer] could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one. And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what we’ve earned.”