Ronaldo: This season could be the "last one"

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, said in an interview with Vogue magazine published the day before yesterday that he believes this year will “most likely” be his last as a professional football player. Ronaldo, who has cemented his place among the greatest footballers in history by scoring 976 goals for clubs and the national team, had previously spoken of retiring “soon” or within “a year or two.” He told Vogue, “This is most likely my last year in football, and I want to leave an exceptional legacy,” adding that his post-football future is “fully mapped out.” He added, “I have many things keeping me busy, and it’s hard to mention just one,” listing travel and paddle as among his favorite activities. The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus striker explained, “Because football can leave a huge void, you have to fill your time in different ways, not just one.” He continued, “I will enjoy life more, travel more, watch and play paddle, a sport I truly love, and continue to enjoy what I have achieved, and what we have all achieved, because after all, 25 years filled with sacrifices have passed.” Ronaldo married his partner of many years, Argentine Georgina Rodriguez, in a private ceremony held last Tuesday at the Cascais resort in Portugal. After leading Portugal to the round of 16 in what he described as his final World Cup appearance this summer, Ronaldo is expected to join his club Al Nassr in preparation for the new Saudi Pro League season, continuing to play for “Al-‘Alami” this campaign as he approaches the milestone of reaching 1,000 career goals.