Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the current Saudi Pro League season could mark the end of his illustrious career. The 41-year-old football icon’s contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh, which commenced in December 2022, is set to conclude next June, with Ronaldo expressing doubts about extending it further.
In an interview with Vogue magazine, Ronaldo emphasized, “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.” Recently married to his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez, Ronaldo shared insights into his post-football plans, stating, “I have my future all mapped out.” He highlighted the importance of diversifying interests to fill the void that football’s retirement may bring, mentioning activities such as traveling, playing padel, and enjoying the fruits of his hard-earned success over his 25-year career.
The ongoing 2026-27 SPL season marks Ronaldo’s milestone 25th year in professional football. Renowned for his exceptional achievements, including five Ballon d’Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles, Ronaldo’s impact on the sport has been monumental. Notably, his stellar performance last season with Al-Nassr, where he scored 28 league goals, contributed significantly to the club clinching the Saudi Arabian championship in May, marking his first title since joining the team and the club’s first league triumph since 2019.
Following his recent wedding, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s season opener but remains an influential presence within the team. Al-Nassr’s coach, Ange Postecoglou, acknowledged Ronaldo’s continuous support, emphasizing his importance to the squad. Looking ahead, Ronaldo may feature in the upcoming King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah, with Postecoglou stressing the significance of proper recovery due to the tight schedule.
Ronaldo’s reflections on potential retirement coincide with revelations from his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, who recently expressed uncertainties about his future in football following his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, admitted, “I don’t know how to carry on. I used to just play football, and now I’m really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer.”
