Following Manuel Neuer, another iconic figure in world soccer is set to retire next summer. Cristiano Ronaldo’s comments on the matter are, in any case, more specific than ever before.
Cristiano Ronaldo is “probably” facing his final year as a professional. The Portuguese star explained in an interview with Vogue that he will likely end his career next summer when his contract with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia expires. The 41-year-old had already announced at the end of 2025 that he did not intend to remain in soccer after his playing career. Instead, he wants to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests.
“This is probably my last year in soccer, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo said. “I’ve already planned my future in detail,” he revealed. “I have so many things on my mind that it’s hard to name just one. Since soccer could leave a big void, you have to fill your time in a variety of ways, not just one.”
Ronaldo married his longtime partner Georgina Rodriguez (32) a few days ago. He has been playing for Al-Nassr since 2023; with Portugal, he was eliminated in the World Cup round of 16 by Spain, the eventual world champion.
After his career, he wants to “have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel—which I really enjoy—and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned—what we’ve earned. After all, it’s been 25 years in which I’ve sacrificed a lot,” said Ronaldo. The three-time World Player of the Year and five-time Ballon d’Or winner has won, among other titles, five Champions League titles and one European Championship.