'Probably my last year' - Ronaldo hints at retirement

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the current football season could mark the end of his illustrious playing career. The 41-year-old athlete, who recently married his partner Georgina Rodriguez, indicated a desire to shift his focus towards his family and building a lasting legacy after dedicating 25 years to the sport.

Throughout his career, Ronaldo has achieved remarkable success, securing five Ballon d'Or awards and five Champions League titles. He has also claimed league championships in England, Spain, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, and holds the record for the most goals scored in men's international football. He currently plays for Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr, with one year remaining on his contract.

"This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy," Ronaldo told Vogue in an interview discussing his wedding. "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. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one."

Ronaldo is also closing in on another significant milestone, needing just 24 more goals to reach 1,000 senior career goals. His long-time rival, Lionel Messi, who has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards, has also recently expressed uncertainty about the duration of his own playing career. The contrasting performances of the two legends in their respective World Cup campaigns further highlighted the twilight of their careers, with Messi leading Argentina to victory while Ronaldo's Portugal exited in the round of 16.

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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. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.