Ronaldo hints 2027 could mark his final year in football

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the 2026–27 season could be his final year in professional football, revealing to Vogue that retirement may arrive when his Al‑Nassr contract expires in 2027. Fresh from his wedding to Georgina Rodríguez, the 41‑year‑old admitted he is preparing mentally for the end of a historic career. Ronaldo, who is chasing the milestone of 1,000 official goals, said he wants to “leave a spectacular legacy” and already has multiple projects lined up to ease the transition away from daily competition.

He explained that football can leave a significant void, one he intends to fill through travel, padel and enjoying the rewards of decades of sacrifice. After twenty‑five years at the sport’s summit, this marks his clearest indication yet that the finish line is approaching. A five‑time Champions League winner and the all‑time leading scorer in football history, Ronaldo’s era‑defining rivalry with Lionel Messi is also nearing its conclusion.