Ronaldo hints he may retire after 2026-27 season

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested he might hang up his boots after the 2026-27 season. He wants to leave a meaningful legacy behind.

The 41-year-old captain of Portugal shared this news in an interview with Vogue released on Sunday. He talked about his future after marrying his partner Georgina Rodríguez.

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

The Al-Nassr player, who kicked off the new season on August 15, mentioned he is excited about spending more time with his family.

"I have my future all mapped out," he said. "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. 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."

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

These comments give a clear sign from the Portuguese star about the end of a career that has brought him major titles with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Portugal.

Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023 after leaving Manchester United.

He is still playing at a top level and represented Portugal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has netted over 900 senior career goals for both club and country.

He and Rodríguez tied the knot in a private ceremony at their home in Cascais, Portugal, on August 11. This date marked the 10th anniversary of when they first met.

In the Vogue interview, the couple expressed their excitement about spending more time together and with their kids.

Ronaldo mentioned he has already mapped out his life after football, hinting that retirement would not mean an end to his activities but a start of something new.