Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that the 41‑year‑old may end his playing career at the end of this season. In a Vogue interview he said, "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy." He had already confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament, but added, "I will retire when I want to, not when you want." Portugal were knocked out by Spain in the last 16, concluding his World Cup journey. Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cups, leaving the competition with 11 goals from 27 appearances.

Despite his age, he continues to score prolifically for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League and is close to reaching 1,000 career goals. He is contracted to the Saudi club until 2027. His trophy cabinet includes five Ballons d'Or, five Champions League titles, league titles in England, Spain and Italy, the European Championship and Nations League with Portugal, and he remains Real Madrid’s all‑time leading scorer and the top goalscorer in men’s international football history.