Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the ongoing Saudi Pro League season could mark his final year as a professional footballer. The 41-year-old icon, under contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh since December 2022, is expected to conclude his career when his current deal expires next June. In an interview with Vogue magazine, Ronaldo expressed his belief that this season may be his swan song in football, emphasizing his desire to leave behind a remarkable legacy.
With a remarkable tally of 976 career goals to his name, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Ronaldo shared his plans for the future, highlighting a diverse range of activities he intends to pursue beyond football. These include engaging in various interests to fill the potential void left by the sport, such as traveling, playing padel, and relishing the fruits of his hard-earned success alongside his partner.
As Ronaldo embarks on his 25th professional season in the 2026-27 SPL campaign, he boasts an impressive resume featuring five Ballon d’Or accolades and five UEFA Champions League triumphs. His stellar performance last season, netting 28 league goals, propelled Al-Nassr to clinch the Saudi Arabian championship in May, marking his inaugural trophy with the club and the team’s first league title since 2019.
Following his recent wedding celebrations, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s season opener as they secured a 3-0 victory against Al-Fateh, with coach Ange Postecoglou acknowledging Ronaldo’s continuous support from the sidelines. Looking ahead, Ronaldo is expected to feature in the upcoming King’s Cup clash against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday, with Postecoglou emphasizing the importance of recovery amid a tight match schedule.
The announcement from Ronaldo coincided with Lionel Messi’s revelation about contemplating retirement following his father’s passing. The 39-year-old Messi expressed uncertainties about his future in football, stating his struggle to envision continuing the sport without his father’s presence.