Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Retirement After 2026 Season

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that 2026 will “probably” be his final year as a professional footballer, bringing his illustrious career closer to its expected conclusion.

The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar made the revelation in an interview with Vogue magazine published on Sunday.

Ronaldo, who has scored more than 950 goals for club and country, has previously suggested that he could retire “soon” or within the next “one or two years.”

“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo said, adding that his plans for life after football were already “all mapped out.”

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward said he has several interests that could keep him occupied after retirement, including travelling and playing padel.

He explained that life after football would require him to stay active, saying, “Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.”

Ronaldo also spoke about his desire to enjoy the rewards of his long and demanding career.

“I want to continue to enjoy what I’ve earned — what we’ve earned. Because after all it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice,” he said.

The Portugal captain recently led his country to the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is expected to return to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr ahead of the new Saudi Pro League season.

If Ronaldo retires at the end of 2026, it would mark the end of one of football’s most decorated and prolific careers.