Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the current Saudi Pro League season could mark the end of his illustrious playing career. The 41-year-old football icon’s contract with Al-Nassr, based in Riyadh, is set to expire in June next year, and he has disclosed to Vogue magazine that he is unlikely to sign another contract beyond that.
“I believe this will be my final year in football, and I aim to leave behind a remarkable legacy,” Ronaldo expressed. With a remarkable tally of 976 career goals, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
“I have already planned out my future,” Ronaldo stated. “I have numerous interests to pursue, making it difficult to pinpoint just one. Football has been a significant part of my life for 25 years, and although it will leave a void, I intend to engage in various activities to fill my time and continue enjoying the rewards I’ve earned.”
Ronaldo, who has clinched five Ballon d’Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles during his career, guided Al-Nassr to victory in the Saudi Arabian league last season with his 28 league goals, marking his first championship since joining the club and the team’s first league triumph since 2019.
Following his wedding celebrations, Ronaldo was absent for Al-Nassr’s opening game of the season, a 3-0 triumph over Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou praised Ronaldo’s support, mentioning that the football star remains an integral part of the team. Ronaldo is expected to feature in the upcoming King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah, with Postecoglou emphasizing the importance of recovery given the tight schedule.
Ronaldo’s contemplation on retirement coincides with Lionel Messi’s recent statement about potentially stepping away from the sport following his father’s passing. Messi, aged 39, expressed uncertainty about his future in football, reflecting on his transition from solely focusing on playing to contemplating a different path ahead.