Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the ongoing season in the Saudi Pro League could mark the end of his illustrious football career. The 41-year-old football icon is currently playing for Al-Nassr in Riyadh under a contract signed in December 2022, set to expire in June. In an interview with Vogue magazine, Ronaldo expressed that he is unlikely to continue playing beyond this season, aiming to leave behind a remarkable legacy.
Having scored a remarkable 976 career goals, the Portuguese forward recently tied the knot with his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Ronaldo shared his plans for the future, emphasizing the need to diversify his interests and stay occupied post-football. He mentioned his passion for activities like padel, traveling, and enjoying the fruits of his hard-earned success alongside his partner.
This season marks Ronaldo’s 25th as a professional player. His exceptional track record includes five Ballon d’Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles. Ronaldo’s impressive performance last season, scoring 28 league goals, helped Al-Nassr clinch the Saudi Arabian championship in May, marking his first title with the club since joining in Riyadh and the club’s first league triumph since 2019.
Following his recent wedding, Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s season opener but remains a motivating presence for the team, as noted by coach Ange Postecoglou. Looking ahead, Ronaldo is expected to feature in the upcoming King’s Cup match against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday. Postecoglou emphasized the importance of recovery in the tight schedule ahead.
Ronaldo’s reflections on potential retirement align with recent sentiments shared by his long-time rival Lionel Messi, who hinted at uncertainty about his future in football following personal tragedy. Messi, aged 39, expressed doubts about continuing to play the sport he once solely focused on, highlighting a period of introspection and contemplation.