Football icon Ronaldo reveals 2026 could mark end of his Playing career

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he could retire from professional football at the end of 2026, saying the current year will “probably” be his final one on the pitch.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain made the revelation in an interview with Vogue, admitting that he has begun preparing for life after football.

“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo said.

The Al Nassr forward’s current contract with the Saudi Arabian club runs until June 2027, but he has previously acknowledged that the end of his playing career is approaching without giving a definite retirement date.

Ronaldo had said in November that he expected to continue playing for another “one or two years” and confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament.

Portugal’s World Cup campaign ended with a defeat to Spain last month, although Ronaldo initially refused to reveal when he would officially hang up his boots.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner told Vogue that he already has plans for life beyond football and intends to devote more time to his family and personal interests.

“I have my future all mapped out,” he said, adding that he plans to travel more, watch and play padel and enjoy the rewards of a career that has lasted more than two decades.

Ronaldo began his senior career at Sporting before moving to Manchester United in 2003. He went on to achieve legendary status at Real Madrid and also played for Juventus before returning briefly to Manchester United and later joining Al Nassr.

If Ronaldo retires this year, it would bring an end to one of the most decorated individual careers in football history, spanning more than 25 years at the highest level.