Ronaldo Hints at Retirement: Is This His Last Year on the Pitch?

Portuguese soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that this could be his last year playing professional football, sparking speculation about the future of one of the sport's biggest stars.

In a recent interview with Vogue, Ronaldo discussed his recent wedding to Georgina Rodriguez and revealed he plans to end his 24-year career in the sport.

Ronaldo, 41, said “this is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy” while also emphasizing that he has his future “all mapped out,” which will include more time with his family, travel, and playing padel.

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus star previously announced the 2022 FIFA World Cup would be his last, citing a desire to leave the tournament with a clear conscience after Portugal's disappointing exit in the round of 16.

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Ronaldo is one of the most decorated soccer players in history, with five Ballon d'Or awards and a storied career that includes captaining Portugal to Euro victory in 2016 and scoring almost 1,000 goals for top European clubs.

Ronaldo's net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion, with the Portuguese star having earned an estimated $300 million last year alone. His current contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr is reportedly worth $235 million annually.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi also hinted at retirement in a recent social media post after his father's passing. The 39-year-old wrote that he never got to speak to his father about Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final and expressed doubts about continuing his career.