Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement after 2026-27 season

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that his professional football career may conclude after the 2026-27 season, stating his ambition to leave behind a "spectacular legacy."

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

The 41-year-old Portuguese captain, who began the current season on August 15, shared these thoughts in an interview with Vogue, published on Sunday. Following his wedding to Georgina Rodríguez, Ronaldo indicated that he has his future plans well-defined. He noted that football leaves a significant void, which needs to be filled through various activities beyond just one pursuit.

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I have my future all mapped out.

Ronaldo expressed a desire for more family time, travel, and engaging in activities like padel, which he enjoys. He also wants to continue enjoying the rewards of his career. "Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice," he stated.

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Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one. And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned, what we’ve earned.

This marks one of the clearest indications from the star about the approaching end of a career marked by major titles with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Portugal. Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner with over 900 senior career goals, married Rodríguez on August 11. He and Rodríguez are looking forward to spending more time together and with their children, viewing retirement as the start of a new, active phase of life.

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Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.