Portugal football star Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at retirement, saying that the coming year could potentially be the final season of his illustrious career.
The 41-year-old is regarded as one of the most successful players in football history. He began his senior career with Sporting in 2002 and went on to win numerous major honours with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and his current club, Al Nassr.
A five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Ronaldo has never lifted the FIFA World Cup. Portugal also failed to win this year’s tournament, leaving the World Cup as one of the few major honours missing from his decorated career.
In an interview with a fashion magazine, Ronaldo said the upcoming year could be his last in professional football and that he wanted to leave behind a “great legacy”.
Speaking about life after retirement, he said he had plenty of activities to keep himself occupied, including travelling more, playing padel and enjoying life.
Ronaldo acknowledged that retirement could leave a significant void in his life after 25 years of sacrifices and dedication to football. He said he now wanted to enjoy the success he had achieved throughout his career.
Ronaldo is set to continue playing for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr this season, with his sights set on reaching the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals.
He has scored 976 goals for club and country over a career spanning more than two decades and is now just 24 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal mark.
