Cristiano Ronaldo has given his strongest indication yet that he could bring his illustrious football career to an end after the 2026-27 season.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, said his ongoing campaign could be his final year in professional football.
Speaking in an interview with Vogue, Ronaldo said, “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.”
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr runs until June 2027, meaning his latest comments raise the possibility that he could retire when his current deal expires.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously said he expected to play for another one or two years and confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament.
Portugal were knocked out by Spain in the round of 16 at the World Cup last month, with Ronaldo scoring three goals during the competition.
While he has previously acknowledged that retirement was approaching, the forward had avoided giving a clear timeline until his latest comments.
Ronaldo also revealed that he has started preparing for life away from football and intends to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests.
“I have my future all mapped out,” Ronaldo added to Vogue. “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 — what we’ve earned.
“Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”
Ronaldo began his professional career at Sporting CP before going on to play for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus, before joining Al Nassr in January 2023.
His most prolific spell came at Real Madrid, where he scored 450 goals in 438 appearances and became the club’s all-time leading scorer.
His potential retirement would mark the end of one of the most decorated careers in football history.
