Ronaldo hints at retirement after 2026/27 season

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old captain of the Portugal national team, has suggested that he could retire from professional football at the end of the 2026/27 season. In an interview with Vogue, he expressed a desire to leave the game with a "spectacular legacy," stating, "This is probably my last year of football." This marks a notable change from his previous stance, where he maintained that he would decide his retirement on his own terms.

Ronaldo's current contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr extends until June 2027, indicating that he may conclude his illustrious career when this deal expires. He has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last appearance in the tournament.

Ronaldo has scored 976 goals for club and country and aims to reach the 1,000-goal milestone before retiring. He has won five Ballon d’Or awards and numerous titles across various leagues but has never won a FIFA World Cup.