Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the 2026 to 2027 season could be his final year as a professional footballer.
The 41 year old Portuguese star made the comments in an interview with Vogue published on Sunday, shortly before he is expected to join Al Nassr for the new Saudi Pro League season.
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo told the magazine. 
The statement is the clearest indication yet that the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward is considering the end of his playing career. Ronaldo has previously said he would retire soon or within one or two years, but had not provided a specific timeline.
Ronaldo has scored more than 950 goals for club and country and has established himself as one of football’s most successful players.
He said his life after football was already planned, although he did not reveal a single activity that would occupy him.
“I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard,” he said.
Ronaldo said he would like to travel, watch and play padel, a sport he enjoys, and spend more time enjoying the rewards of his career.
“Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one,” he said.
“I have my future all mapped out,” he added.
The Portuguese star also spoke about the sacrifices made during his 25 year career.
“I want 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,” he said.
Ronaldo made his senior debut for Sporting CP in 2002 before moving to Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. He joined Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr in 2023, and his current contract runs until June 2027.
He recently said that the 2026 World Cup would be his last appearance in the tournament. The competition marked his sixth World Cup.
“It’s about enjoying it as much as possible,” Ronaldo said at the time, according to ESPN. “This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”
He added: “The day will come when I retire from international soccer. But I’ll be honest. Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1,000%. Because I’ve given everything in soccer.”
Ronaldo married his long time partner Georgina Rodriguez in a private ceremony in the Portuguese resort town of Cascais on Tuesday.
