By Dorcas Francis Koji
Cristiano Ronaldo has given one of his clearest indications yet that his remarkable football career could come to an end after the 2026-27 season, saying he wants to leave behind a “spectacular legacy.”
The 41-year-old Portugal captain made the revelation in an interview with Vogue published on Sunday, as he reflected on his future following his recent marriage to Georgina Rodríguez.
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo said.
The Al-Nassr forward, who began the new season on August 15, also revealed that he has already started planning life beyond professional football.
“I have my future all mapped out,” he said. “I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard.”
Ronaldo acknowledged that leaving football could create a significant gap in his life after spending around 25 years at the highest level.
“Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one,” he said.
He added that he hopes to travel more, spend time with his family, watch and play padel and enjoy the rewards of a career built on years of sacrifice. “Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”
Ronaldo’s comments come as he continues to play for Al-Nassr and Portugal after a career that has taken him to some of the biggest clubs and stages in world football.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner enjoyed hugely successful spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus before joining Al-Nassr in 2023 following his departure from Manchester United.
He has also remained a key figure for Portugal and featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
With more than 900 senior career goals for club and country, Ronaldo has established himself as one of the most prolific goalscorers in football history.
Beyond the pitch, the Portuguese superstar recently entered a new chapter of his personal life after marrying Rodríguez in an intimate ceremony at their home in Cascais, Portugal, on August 11 — the 10th anniversary of the day they first met.
The couple said they were looking forward to spending more time together and with their children.
For Ronaldo, retirement appears to be something he has already considered carefully rather than a sudden decision. While his use of the word “probably” leaves room for uncertainty, his remarks suggest the end of his playing career is now firmly on the horizon.
After a quarter of a century defined by trophies, records and individual accolades, Ronaldo appears determined to ensure that his final season adds one more chapter to an extraordinary football legacy.
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