Chicago – August 18, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo has given his strongest indication yet that he could retire from professional football after the 2026-27 season.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain made the comments in an interview with Vogue, saying, “This is probably my last year of football,” while adding that he wants to leave a “spectacular legacy.”
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, has enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades. He has won major trophies with Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr, as well as five Ballon d’Or awards.
He said he has already thought about life after football and plans to spend more time with his family, travel and play padel. Ronaldo also remains focused on reaching 1,000 career goals, having scored 976 for club and country, according to Reuters.
His comments suggest the 2026-27 campaign could be the final chapter of one of football’s most celebrated careers.
