Cristiano Ronaldo Says This Will ‘Probably’ Be His Last Year in Football

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the end of his legendary career may be closer than ever, saying this will “probably” be his final year as a professional footballer. In an interview with Vogue magazine published alongside his recent wedding to Georgina Rodriguez, the 41-year-old reflected on his future and what lies beyond the pitch.

“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo told Vogue. The Portuguese superstar, who has one year remaining on his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, also revealed he already has his retirement plans 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,” he said, mentioning travel, padel, and enjoying what he has earned over 25 years of sacrifice.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner and five-time Champions League champion has enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades, beginning with Sporting CP in 2002. He has won league titles in England, Spain, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, and holds the record for most goals in men’s international football with 146 goals for Portugal. He also became the first player to score in six World Cups.

Ronaldo now sits just 24 goals away from the historic milestone of 1,000 senior career goals. If he does retire within the next year, it would bring an end to a professional career that has redefined the standards of longevity and excellence in modern football.