Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that the current season in the Saudi Pro League may mark the end of his illustrious football career. The 41-year-old star’s contract with Al-Nassr in Riyadh, which was inked in December 2022, is set to expire in June, and he has shared with Vogue magazine that another season is improbable.
“I believe this could be my final year in football, and I aim to leave behind an extraordinary legacy,” Ronaldo stated. The Portuguese forward, renowned for scoring 976 career goals, recently tied the knot with his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez.
“I have my future plans well laid out,” he remarked. “There are numerous activities to occupy my time as football’s departure could create a significant void. It’s essential to engage in various pursuits for enjoyment, such as traveling more, playing and watching padel, a sport I truly enjoy, and continuing to relish the fruits of our labor. Over the past 25 years, there has been a great deal of sacrifice.”
Ronaldo, in his 25th season as a professional athlete, clinched five Ballon d’Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles throughout his career. His exceptional performance, including 28 league goals last season, led Al-Nassr to win the Saudi Arabian championship in May, securing his first title since joining the club in Riyadh and the team’s first league victory since 2019.
Upon his return from his recent nuptials, Ronaldo was absent for Al-Nassr’s first match of the season, where he watched from the sidelines as the team commenced their title defense with a 3-0 triumph over Al-Fateh. Coach Ange Postecoglou expressed, “Cristiano is present with us today, and his influence is always felt.”
Looking ahead, Ronaldo may feature in the upcoming King’s Cup fixture against Al-Diriyah on Tuesday. Postecoglou stressed the importance of recovery, especially with only a two-day gap following the previous match.
Ronaldo’s reflections came shortly after his long-standing rival Lionel Messi hinted at a potential retirement following his father’s passing. “I’m uncertain about my future,” Messi, aged 39, admitted. “Previously, I solely focused on playing football, but now I’m unsure if I will continue for much longer.”