Cristiano Ronaldo believes this year is “probably” his last as a professional footballer, the 41-year-old Portugal captain said in an interview with Vogue magazine published on Sunday. The Al-Nassr forward, who has scored more than 950 goals for club and country, had previously spoken of retiring “soon” or within “one or two years”.
Ronaldo's Retirement Plans
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo told Vogue, adding that his future after football was “all mapped out”. He emphasised the need to fill his time with various activities, saying: “Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.”
Ronaldo listed travel and padel among his favourite hobbies, and expressed a desire to “continue to enjoy what I’ve earned – what we’ve earned. Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”
Recent Milestones and Career Highlights
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus player recently married his partner, Georgina Rodríguez, in an intimate ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais on Tuesday. He was part of the Portugal side that reached the last 16 of the World Cup this summer.
Ronaldo is due to link up with Al-Nassr for the new Saudi Pro League season, continuing his career in Saudi Arabia. His career totals include over 950 goals for club and country, cementing his status among football's all-time greats.
Looking Ahead
With his retirement imminent, Ronaldo's focus is on leaving a lasting impact. His comments to Vogue mark a significant shift from his earlier statements, suggesting a more definitive timeline for his exit from professional football.
The 2024 season will likely be his final campaign, and fans will watch closely as he aims to end his career on a high note with Al-Nassr and potentially the Portugal national team.
