Cristiano Ronaldo Reveals Intent to Retire: 'This Will Be My Final Year in Football'

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he is contemplating retirement from professional football, potentially as soon as 2028. The announcement comes as his contract with Al Nassr is set to expire next summer, leading the Portuguese superstar to suggest that he may step away from the sport altogether after that date. This statement follows his recent marriage to long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez earlier this month.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history. He transitioned from the highly competitive European leagues in 2020 and made his final appearance on the grand stage during the FIFA 2026 World Cup, where he scored two goals for Portugal. However, many observers noted that he did not appear to be at his peak performance level. In an interview with Vogue, Ronaldo expressed his desire to leave behind a remarkable legacy, stating, “This is probably my last year of football.”

Looking ahead to life after football, Ronaldo has indicated a desire to dedicate more time to his family, which includes five children. “I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard,” he shared. He emphasized the importance of filling the void that football may leave, suggesting that he plans to engage in various activities, including traveling, playing padel, and enjoying the fruits of his extensive career, which has spanned 25 years filled with dedication and hard work.