Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the 2026/27 season could “probably” be his final campaign as a professional footballer.
The 41-year-old has offered several indications about retirement in recent years, but his latest comments appear to be his strongest suggestion yet that his illustrious career is nearing its end.
Ronaldo is also expected to retire from international football during the next international break after Portugal’s disappointing World Cup campaign ended with a round-of-16 defeat to eventual champions Spain.
The forward had previously confirmed that the tournament would be his final World Cup, although he said after Portugal’s elimination that he would not make any “rash decisions” about his international future.
Having enjoyed an extraordinary career with club and country, Ronaldo is already looking beyond football.
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he told Vogue.
“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.
“And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play Padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned. Because, after all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”
Ronaldo’s current contract with Al-Nassr expires in June 2027, meaning he could remain with the Saudi club until the end of his deal before calling time on his playing career.
He made history by becoming the first player to score at six World Cups and remains the leading scorer in men’s international football with 146 goals.
The Portugal captain is also approaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals, having scored 976 official goals in 1,330 appearances as he prepares for his 25th professional season.
Ronaldo has collected 35 major trophies with club and country and has won the Ballon d’Or five times, including back-to-back victories on two occasions.
