Cristiano Ronaldo put a timeline on his cryptic retirement hint on Tuesday, saying he will hang up his boots in “one or two years” after telling the world that he would be retiring soon.
The Portugal forward, who has scored over 950 goals for club and country, made his debut as a teenager at Sporting in 2002 and said in an interview that he would retire soon to spend time with his family.
Ronaldo extended his contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr until 2027 in June and the 40-year-old Portuguese is also targeting next year’s World Cup, the only major title missing from his trophy cabinet.
“Soon for me means in 10 years… No, I’m joking,” Ronaldo said via video call at a Saudi-hosted global summit on tourism and investment.
“I’m really enjoying the moment right now. As you know, in football, when you reach some age, you count the months very quick.
“I feel very good in this moment. I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp. I’m enjoying my game in the national team. But of course, let’s be honest. What I mean by soon is probably one or two years.”
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Despite being 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to perform vigorously under strict self-management. This season, he played a total of 10 matches, including 7 Saudi Pro League games, completing full matches without substitutions. His scoring ability remains intact, having scored 8 goals in 7 league matches.
Ronaldo explained, “Naturally, it will be difficult. I might cry,” adding, “I am someone who does not hide his emotions. I tend to cry easily and am honest and open. However, since I have been preparing for the future since I was 25–27 years old, I think I can endure that pressure.”
He further added, “The adrenaline I feel when scoring goals while playing football is incredible, but now I want to give myself more time,” and mentioned, “Especially, I often miss my 3-year-old daughter Bella. When I am away from her for long periods at hotels during away games, the longing grows.”
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Ronaldo stated that watching his son Cristiano Junior’s growth after retirement is his new motivation. Junior recently won the Federation Cup as part of the Portugal U-16 national team.
Ronaldo emphasized, “It’s a kind of instinct. I want to watch Cristiano Junior. He is at a certain stage in his life. Everyone does foolish things when they are young, right? I did too,” and continued, “That’s why I want to guide him by being by his side. Since Mateus (his son) also loves football, I want to spend more time with my family.”
With additional input by GVS US and Intl desk