Cristiano Ronaldo says he will 'probably' retire at end of season

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted he may retire from football after the conclusion of his contract with Al Nassr next summer. The 41-year-old forward revealed his plans in an interview with Vogue, following his recent marriage to long-term partner Georgina Rodriguez. Ronaldo stated, "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy."

He added, "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." Ronaldo also expressed his desire to travel more, play padel, and enjoy the fruits of his labor, noting that his career has spanned 25 years with significant sacrifice.

The Portuguese star led Al Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title last season, bringing an end to his trophy drought. This season, Ronaldo is aiming to surpass his career goal tally of 976, and he has expressed a desire to play alongside his 16-year-old son, Cristiano Junior, in a senior competitive match. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner began his football journey at Sporting in 2002, before moving on to distinguished careers at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

Ronaldo briefly rejoined Old Trafford before signing with Al Nassr, becoming the global ambassador for Saudi football. His comments come in the wake of Lionel Messi's admission that he too is contemplating retirement following the passing of his father, Jorge.