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, which he signed in December 2022, is set to expire in June, and he expressed doubts about extending it further.
“This is likely my final year in football, and I aim to depart with a remarkable legacy,” Ronaldo shared in an interview with Vogue magazine. The Portuguese forward, renowned for his 976 career goals, recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
“I have my future plans well laid out. There are numerous endeavors to keep me engaged, as football’s potential absence could create a significant void that I need to fill through diverse activities,” Ronaldo disclosed. “I intend to have more fun, travel extensively, indulge in padel, a sport I deeply enjoy, and continue relishing the fruits of our labor. It has been 25 years of immense dedication and sacrifice.”
The ongoing 2026-27 SPL season marks Ronaldo’s 25th year as a professional player. Throughout his career, he has clinched five Ballon d’Or accolades and secured five UEFA Champions League titles. Ronaldo’s impressive tally of 28 league goals in the previous season played a pivotal role in Al-Nassr’s triumph in the Saudi Arabian league in May, marking his first title since joining the club and the first league championship for Al-Nassr since 2019.
Following his recent marriage, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s opening game in defense of their title, observing from the sidelines as the team secured a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou praised Ronaldo’s continued support, emphasizing his significant presence within the team.
Ronaldo is anticipated to feature in the upcoming King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday. Postecoglou highlighted the crucial focus on recovery given the tight schedule after the previous game.
Notably, Ronaldo’s statements align with those of his long-standing rival Lionel Messi, who recently hinted at a potential retirement following his father’s passing. Messi expressed uncertainty about his future in football, acknowledging the challenges of moving forward after the loss.
