Cristiano Ronaldo believes the current season will probably be the final chapter of his remarkable playing career.
The 41-year-old married his partner, Georgina Rodriguez, on Tuesday and is now considering a future focused more closely on his family.
Ronaldo has collected five Ballon d’Or awards and five Champions League trophies, while also winning domestic titles in England, Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia. He remains the leading scorer in the history of men’s international football.
The Portugal captain has been with Saudi Pro League title-holders Al-Nassr for nearly four years and still has another year left on his deal.
Speaking to Vogue during an interview about his wedding, Ronaldo said this would most likely be his final year in football and that he hoped to finish with an outstanding legacy.
He explained that he has already made plans for life after the sport and has many interests that can occupy his time. In his view, retiring from football may create a major void, so it will be important to pursue several different activities.
Ronaldo said he intends to enjoy himself more, travel frequently, watch and play padel, and appreciate everything that he and his family have achieved.
He added that his success has followed 25 years of considerable dedication and sacrifice.
Ronaldo needs another 24 goals to reach 1,000 at senior level.
His long-standing rival Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has also recently admitted that he does not know how much longer his own playing career will continue.
Their World Cup experiences were sharply different: Messi scored eight times and guided Argentina into the final, whereas Ronaldo and Portugal were eliminated in the round of 16.
When asked in July if a sixth World Cup appearance would be his last, Ronaldo said he would discuss the matter with his family before reaching a decision with a clear mind.
Al-Nassr began their Saudi Pro League title defence against Al Fateh on Saturday. Ronaldo was not involved in the match, but joined his family in the stands to watch the champions secure victory.
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