“Probably my last year”: Ronaldo drops clearest retirement hint

Cristiano Ronaldo has dropped his most definitive hint yet that his playing career is coming to an end, telling Vogue that this upcoming season "probably" marks his final year in football. The 41-year-old's comments reflected a more definitive stance compared to his previous, less certain retirement musings. The revelation emerged in a more intimate setting, following Ronaldo's recent marriage to longtime partner Georgina Rodríguez on August 11.

The couple's anniversary of ten years together coincided with his candid remarks about life beyond football. This shift in tone comes after a decade-long career under intense public scrutiny. A year ago, Ronaldo had hinted at "one or two years" remaining, but this comment indicated his final appearance at the World Cup, which ended Portugal's run in the round of 16.

Since then, Ronaldo has begun planning a life post-retirement, including more travel, personal pursuits like padel, and a growing business career. His contract with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia extends until June 2027, suggesting that ending his season would coincide with his retirement. The extent to which Sunday's comments will be his final word on retirement remains to be seen, but Ronaldo appears ready to bid farewell to the pitch.