Riyadh: Cristiano Ronaldo has finally offered clarity on his retirement plans, revealing that he expects to hang up his boots within the next ‘one or two years.’
The Portuguese football legend, who has scored over 950 goals for club and country, said he wants to spend more time with his family after a record-breaking career that began at Sporting Lisbon in 2002.
Speaking at a global tourism and investment summit hosted in Saudi Arabia, the 40-year-old Al-Nassr forward said he still feels in top form but admitted the end is drawing near. “I’m really enjoying the moment right now. I still feel quick and sharp. But let’s be honest, what I mean by ‘soon’ is probably one or two years,” he said with a smile.
Ronaldo, who extended his contract with Al-Nassr until 2027, hinted that the 2026 World Cup will be his final appearance on football’s grandest stage. “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old,” he said.
“I’ve given everything for football. I’ve been in the game for 25 years, achieved many records at club and national levels, and I’m proud of what I’ve done. Now it’s time to enjoy the moment,” Ronaldo added.
As Portugal closes in on qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, fans are preparing to see their captain in what could be his farewell tournament.
Ronaldo also spoke warmly about his son, Cristiano Jr., who plays for Portugal’s Under-16 team. While acknowledging that comparisons are inevitable, he said his priority as a father is his son’s happiness, not pressure. “I wish my kids would be better than me, but I’ll never be jealous of that. What matters most is that he’s happy and free to be whatever he wants to be,” Ronaldo said.
