Cristiano Ronaldo hints at when he plans to retire
At 41, Portuguese star admits the 2026/27 season could be his last and is already planning life after football
16 August 2026 at 19:30 · 2h ago · 2 min read
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Cristiano Ronaldo gave one of the clearest hints yet about the end of his career. At 41, the striker revealed in an interview with Vogue magazine that the 2026/27 season will probably be his last as a professional player.
"This will probably be my last year in football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy," said the Portuguese star. The statement raises expectations about the final chapters of a career that has already spanned 25 years.
This will probably be my last year in football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.
Currently at Al-Nassr, Ronaldo still has commitments ahead and intends to keep playing this season. The striker also still aims to reach the historic mark of 1,000 career goals, being close to the number.
The possible retirement would close a cycle that began professionally at Sporting in 2002. Since then, Ronaldo has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr, in addition to building a historic career with the Portuguese national team.
The Portuguese star won five Ballons d'Or and numerous important titles throughout his career, including five Champions League editions and the 2016 European Championship with Portugal.
Even thinking about the end of his career, Ronaldo said he already has plans to fill his routine after football. The player intends to travel more, follow and play padel, as well as spend more time with his family.
"I already have my whole future planned," said the star. For him, leaving football could create a huge void, which is why he intends to keep up different activities after leaving the pitch.
Ronaldo also highlighted the sacrifice involved in his journey. After a quarter of a century dedicated to professional football, the striker said he is proud of everything he has achieved over that period.
The definitive decision, however, has not yet been made official. The word "probably" leaves open the possibility of a change in plans, especially if Ronaldo manages to reach his personal goals this season.
The striker had also previously indicated that the 2026 World Cup would be his last appearance in the tournament. Now, the statement to Vogue points to a possible definitive end to his career after the current season.
Should he confirm the decision, Cristiano Ronaldo will leave football after one of the most remarkable careers in the sport's history, with records, titles and a mark he still intends to extend before saying goodbye to the pitch.
