Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the ongoing Saudi Pro League season could mark the conclusion of his illustrious football career. The 41-year-old icon’s contract with Al-Nassr, inked in December 2022, is set to expire next June, and he expressed doubts about extending it. Ronaldo shared with Vogue magazine his intention to create a remarkable legacy in what he believes could be his final year in football.
With a remarkable tally of 976 career goals, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Ronaldo highlighted his future plans, emphasizing the need to diversify his activities to fill the potential void left by football. He looks forward to engaging in a variety of pursuits, including more leisure travel, playing padel, and savoring the rewards of his hard-earned success.
As he embarks on his 25th professional season during the 2026-27 SPL campaign, Ronaldo has accumulated an impressive collection of accolades, including five Ballon d’Or trophies and five UEFA Champions League titles. His stellar performance last season, contributing 28 league goals, propelled Al-Nassr to clinch the Saudi Arabian championship in May, securing his first trophy with the club since joining in Riyadh and the team’s first league title since 2019.
Following his recent wedding celebrations, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s season opener, observing from the sidelines as they secured a 3-0 victory against Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou expressed the team’s gratitude for Ronaldo’s presence and hinted at his potential return in the upcoming King’s Cup clash against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday. Postecoglou emphasized the importance of Ronaldo’s recovery given the tight schedule ahead.
Ronaldo’s remarks align with recent sentiments from his longtime rival Lionel Messi, who hinted at a possible retirement following the passing of his father. Messi, aged 39, expressed uncertainty about his future in football, contemplating a potential shift away from the sport that has defined his career.
These developments underscore a potential changing of the guard in the world of football, as two of the game’s greatest icons contemplate the next chapter in their illustrious careers.
