Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portugal captain, has indicated that the 2024-25 season will likely be his final year as a professional footballer. In an interview with Vogue published on August 16, Ronaldo stated: 'This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy.'
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, also revealed that he has mapped out his future plans, emphasizing a transition away from the sport. 'I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard,' he said. 'Football could leave a big hole, so you have to fill your time in various ways—not just one.' His remarks follow his recent marriage to long-time partner Georgina Rodríguez on August 11, the 10-year anniversary of their first meeting.
Ronaldo’s career milestones and current status
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has scored 976 goals for club and country across a career spanning more than two decades. He made his senior debut for Sporting Lisbon in 2002 and has since played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr, winning major trophies at each club. His international career includes 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal, though he did not add a World Cup title to his honors after Portugal’s Round of 16 exit at the 2024 tournament.
At Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has scored 102 goals in 107 matches since joining in 2023. His final match of the season, if this is indeed his last, would be on May 28, 2027, assuming a standard league schedule.
Future plans and legacy
Ronaldo outlined his post-football aspirations, including travel, playing padel, and spending more time with family. 'Continue to enjoy what I’ve earned—what we’ve earned,' he said, reflecting on 25 years of professional sacrifice. His comments come as he approaches the 1,000-goal milestone, a target he is expected to reach during the upcoming season.
Reactions and context
Ronaldo’s remarks follow similar hints from rival Lionel Messi, who has also raised questions about his future. The timing of Ronaldo’s interview, coinciding with his recent wedding, has drawn additional attention to his potential retirement. His career has been marked by rare longevity in elite football, with stints in England, Spain, Italy, and Saudi Arabia before his current role in the Middle East.
As Ronaldo prepares for the 2024-25 season, his statements suggest a deliberate shift toward life beyond the pitch, though he has not confirmed an official retirement date.