Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at his football retirement, revealing that the upcoming season could be the final chapter of his legendary career.
The 41-year-old forward revealed that he is potentially entering his final season as a professional, although he remains focused on finishing his career on a high and reaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 goals.
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo told lifestyle magazine Vogue in an interview published on Sunday.
Ronaldo has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning more than two decades since making his senior debut for Sporting CP in 2002.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has represented some of the biggest clubs in Europe, winning major honours with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus before moving to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.
He has also established himself as one of the most prolific players in international football with Portugal.
Ronaldo has scored 976 goals for club and country and is now only 24 goals away from reaching the unprecedented 1,000-goal mark.
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Despite his individual achievements and extensive trophy collection, the Portugal captain has never won the FIFA World Cup.
Portugal’s failure to lift the trophy at the 2026 World Cup means the biggest prize in international football remains absent from Ronaldo’s decorated résumé.
While the forward did not provide a definitive retirement date, his comments suggest that his playing career could be nearing its conclusion.
Ronaldo also reflected on his life after football and admitted that he would have plenty of interests to keep him occupied once he eventually steps away from the sport.
“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,” he said.
The Portugal star added that he wants to travel more, spend time playing padel and enjoy the rewards of a career that has required significant sacrifice.
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