Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the current Saudi Pro League season may mark the conclusion of his illustrious professional football career. The 41-year-old icon’s contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh, which was inked in December 2022, is set to expire in June, with no plans for an extension, as revealed in an interview with Vogue magazine.
“This is likely my final year in football, and I aim to leave behind a remarkable legacy,” Ronaldo shared. The Portuguese forward, renowned for scoring 976 career goals, recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
Detailing his post-football aspirations, Ronaldo stated, “I have my future all planned out. There are numerous endeavors to keep me occupied. Football’s exit may create a void, hence diversifying activities is crucial. I plan to have more fun, travel extensively, engage in padel, a sport I adore, and continue relishing the fruits of our labor. It’s been 25 years of immense dedication and sacrifice.”
The ongoing 2026-27 SPL season marks Ronaldo’s 25th year as a professional player, during which he has clinched five Ballon d’Or accolades and five UEFA Champions League titles. Last season, his 28 league goals propelled Al-Nassr to victory in the Saudi Arabian championship, securing the club’s first league title since 2019.
Following his recent nuptials, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s opening game of the season, where the team triumphed 3-0 against Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou acknowledged Ronaldo’s presence and expressed his importance to the team, emphasizing the need for recovery ahead of their upcoming fixture against Al-Diriyah in the King’s Cup.
Ronaldo’s contemplation of retirement aligns with longtime rival Lionel Messi’s recent sentiments following his father’s passing. Messi, 39, expressed uncertainty about his football future, stating, “I used to solely focus on playing football, but now I’m unsure if I’ll continue for much longer.”