Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that 2026 could be the final year of his football career, with the Portugal legend saying he wants to leave behind a spectacular legacy after 25 years at the top of the sport.
The 41-year-old also revealed that he already has plans for life after football, with several projects and interests lined up.
"This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy. I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard," Ronaldo told Vogue, as per ESPN.
Ronaldo acknowledged that stepping away from football could leave a significant void and said he intends to stay active through travel, padel and other interests while enjoying the rewards of a career built on years of sacrifice.
"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," he said.
Ronaldo's most recent international appearance came at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Portugal were eliminated by Spain in the round of 16 in July.
A late goal from Mikel Merino gave Spain a 1-0 victory in a match that featured several of Europe's leading attacking players, including Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal.
Ronaldo had already indicated before the match that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at football's biggest international tournament. Portugal's exit brought an emotional end to his World Cup journey, with the veteran forward leaving the pitch in disappointment after Spain's late winner.
Ronaldo made his World Cup debut in 2006, when Portugal reached the semi-finals and finished fourth. They were eliminated in the round of 16 in 2010, suffered a group-stage exit in 2014 and again reached the round of 16 in 2018.
At the 2022 World Cup, Portugal progressed to the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Morocco.
The tournament was ultimately won by Argentina, with Ronaldo's long-time rival Lionel Messi leading his country to the title and strengthening his place in the debate over football's greatest players.
Now, with Ronaldo suggesting that his club career could also be approaching its conclusion, one of football's most decorated and recognisable careers appears to be entering its final chapter.