Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the current Saudi Pro League season could mark the end of his illustrious football career. The 41-year-old football icon, who signed a contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh in December 2022, is set to see his deal expire in June next year, and has indicated to Vogue magazine that he is unlikely to pursue another contract beyond this season.
Expressing his thoughts, Ronaldo mentioned, “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.” With an impressive record of 976 career goals, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
Mapping out his future plans, Ronaldo stated, “I have my future all 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, 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.”
Having completed 25 seasons as a professional player in the 2026-27 SPL season, Ronaldo boasts a remarkable career with five Ballon d’Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles. His exceptional performance with 28 league goals last season contributed significantly to Al-Nassr clinching the Saudi Arabian championship in May, marking his first trophy since joining the club in Riyadh and the club’s first league title since 2019.
Following his recent wedding, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s season opener, where the team secured a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou acknowledged Ronaldo’s continuous support, mentioning, “Cristiano is here today, and he is always present with us.” The focus now is on recovery as Al-Nassr prepares to face Al-Diriyah in the King’s Cup on Tuesday, with Postecoglou emphasizing the importance of quick recuperation given the tight schedule.
Ronaldo’s contemplation about retirement coincides with similar sentiments shared by his long-standing rival Lionel Messi, who recently expressed uncertainty about his future in football following his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, revealed, “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.”