Cristiano Ronaldo is speaking more openly about retirement after what he describes as a 25-year career in soccer. At 41, the Al Nassr star says the end of his playing days could now be closer than ever. Ronaldo has already confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his last. Now, a new interview suggests he may soon step away from professional soccer altogether.
Cristiano Ronaldo says this might be his final year playing soccer as retirement approaches
In a Vogue interview published Aug. 16, Ronaldo offered one of his clearest updates yet on retirement. “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he told the magazine.
The comment comes after Ronaldo completed his final World Cup with Portugal. He had previously told reporters that the 2026 tournament would be his last appearance on soccer’s biggest international stage.
Ronaldo also reflected on his 25-year career and what life could look like once he stops playing. He said soccer could leave a major gap in his routine. To fill it, he plans to travel more, spend time with his family, and play padel.
The soccer icon said the long journey required “a lot of sacrifice.” He also explained that he has already planned for life after the game and has plenty to keep him busy. He wants more freedom to enjoy what his career has allowed him to build.
His latest comments are more specific than some of his earlier retirement hints. In November 2025, Ronaldo said retirement was approaching, but he stopped short of giving a firm date.
His Al Nassr contract runs through June 2027, according to People. That timeline fits with his latest suggestion that this could be his final year. The Vogue interview also arrived days after Ronaldo married longtime partner Georgina Rodríguez in Portugal. The couple celebrated with their children in an intimate ceremony.
For now, Ronaldo remains an Al Nassr player. However, retirement is no longer a distant idea. After 25 years in soccer, Ronaldo appears focused on deciding exactly how he wants to finish.
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