Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that the 2026/27 season could be the final year of his professional football career, with the Portugal superstar admitting that he wants to leave behind an exceptional legacy.
Speaking to Vogue, Ronaldo said: “This may truly be my last year in football. I want to leave an amazing legacy.”
The 41 year old forward has now openly acknowledged that retirement is approaching, although his wording leaves room for the possibility that he could continue playing beyond the current season.
Reuters also reports that Ronaldo has described the upcoming campaign as potentially his final season.
Ronaldo Has His Retirement in Mind
Ronaldo's comments come after an extraordinary career spanning more than two decades.
The Portuguese star has played for Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr, while also becoming Portugal's most iconic player.
His latest comments suggest that the end of his playing career is now much closer than before.
Ronaldo has previously spoken about his desire to reach 1,000 career goals before retirement.
He currently has 976 goals, leaving him 24 short of the landmark figure.
That target could now become one of the defining objectives of his final season.
A Final Season With Al-Nassr?
Ronaldo remains contracted to Al-Nassr and is expected to continue with the Saudi Arabian club during the upcoming campaign.
The forward's potential final season could therefore see him chase both team honours and the historic 1,000 goal mark.
For a player who has built his career around setting records and competing at the highest level, reaching four figures before retirement would provide another remarkable achievement.
Ronaldo also recently represented Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, which was his sixth appearance at the tournament.
Portugal's campaign ended in the round of 16 against eventual champions Spain.
“I Want to Leave an Amazing Legacy”
Even if Ronaldo ultimately decides to retire after the 2026/27 season, his career is already among the most decorated in football history.
However, his latest comments show that he is thinking beyond statistics and trophies.
His stated aim is to leave an “amazing legacy”, with the final chapter of his career now potentially beginning.
For millions of supporters who have watched Ronaldo throughout his career, the prospect of his final season adds another layer of significance to the months ahead.