Ronaldo hints at retirement at the end of the season

Ronaldo, 41, told American Vogue magazine on Sunday, “It’s likely that this is my last year in football, and I want to leave an exceptional legacy.”

His comments come weeks after he participated in the 2026 World Cup with the Portuguese national team, which will be his sixth and final appearance in the tournament. Before the World Cup began, Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 edition would be his last in the competition, but he stressed at the time that he would retire when he wanted to, not when others wanted him to.

Portugal was eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 16 after losing to Spain last July, bringing an end to Ronaldo’s journey in the tournament. He became the first player in World Cup history to score in six different editions. He has participated in 27 World Cup matches, scoring 11 goals.

Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to score at a high rate with Saudi club Al Nassr and remains close to reaching the milestone of 1,000 career goals.

The Portuguese national team captain is under contract with Al Nassr until 2027, meaning he may conclude his football career through the Saudi league.

Throughout his career, Ronaldo has won nearly all major club and international trophies and awards. He has won the Ballon d’Or five times as the world’s best player, won the UEFA Champions League five times, and claimed league titles in England, Spain, and Italy.