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Ronaldo hints at retirement, says next year could be his last

The Nation (Pakistan ) · NEWS WIRE · 2026-08-18T01:45:41+00:00 · nguồn gốc

ARLINGTON - Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he could retire from professional football next year, saying he wants to leave a “spectacular legacy” after more than two decades at the highest level. The 41-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner made the revelation in an interview with Vogue, saying the upcoming year would “probably” be the final season of his remarkable playing career. Ronaldo has enjoyed trophy-laden spells with Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus before joining Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. He has scored 976 goals for club and country, putting him within touching distance of the unprecedented 1,000-goal milestone. Despite his extraordinary achievements, Ronaldo was unable to add the FIFA World Cup to his collection of major honours after Portugal fell short at this year’s tournament. Reflecting on life after football, Ronaldo said the end of his playing career would leave a significant void, but he hoped to fill it through travel, family and other interests, including padel. “It’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice,” Ronaldo said, acknowledging the commitment required to sustain his career at the highest level. Ronaldo is set to continue playing for Al-Nassr this season, with the historic 1,000-goal mark potentially within reach before he calls time on one of football’s greatest careers.