Portugal captain and football icon has hinted that he could be entering the final year of his illustrious career, saying he wants to leave behind a ‘spectacular legacy’ after more than two decades at the highest level of the sport.
The 41-year-old forward, who has already begun planning his life beyond football, made the revelation in an interview with Vogue. Ronaldo said his future is already mapped out, with several interests and projects that could keep him occupied once he steps away from professional football.
“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy. I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard,” Ronaldo said.
The Portugal star acknowledged that retirement could leave a major void in his life after spending around 25 years devoted to the game. He said he intends to remain active by travelling, playing and watching padel, while also enjoying the rewards of a career marked by immense sacrifice and success.
His latest comments come shortly after Portugal’s campaign ended in the round of 16. Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal late in the match.
The defeat also marked Ronaldo’s final appearance at the FIFA World Cup, after he had previously indicated that the 2026 edition would be his last. Portugal’s elimination brought another emotional World Cup exit for the legendary forward, who was seen leaving the pitch visibly disappointed.
Ronaldo made his World Cup debut in 2006, when finished fourth. The team subsequently reached the round of 16 in 2010, suffered a group-stage exit in 2014 and again exited in the round of 16 in 2018. In 2022, Portugal progressed to the quarter-finals before their campaign ended.
Across his international career, Ronaldo has established himself as one of football’s most decorated and recognisable figures. His potential retirement would mark the end of an era for both Portugal and global football, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner now preparing for life beyond the sport that defined his career.