Cristiano Ronaldo gives new hint on when he will retire after extending record
Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that retirement isn't necessarily on his radar and maintained as long as he remains motivated he will continue playing as he continues to contribute with Portugal
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorCristiano Ronaldo insists motivation will dictate whether or not he retires as he gave a loose timeline of two years.
The Portugal icon will soon turn 40 and is plying his trade in Saudi Arabia will Al-Nassr, whom he joined after his spell at Manchester United came to an end. Ronaldo has blossomed as his career has gone on, scoring more goals after his 30th birthday than before it.
Ronaldo has also changed his game as time has gone on, transforming into a striker having begun as a winger. He's become known for the dedication he's put into his physical state, which has elongated his career.
Eventually the five-time Ballon d'Or winner will have to hang up his boots but has often poured water on the idea, adamant he still enjoys playing with several milestones still in his sights.
His latest update saw him say: "I just want to enjoy. Plan for the retirement… if it has to happen, in one or two years… I don’t know. I’m turning 40 soon… I really want to enjoy, as long as I feel motivated I keep going. The day I don’t feel motivated, I will retire”.
Ronaldo is closing in on 1000 goals, but would likely need several more seasons to achieve that landmark. He's also joked that his son, who is in the academy in Saudi Arabia, wants him to keep playing so that they can eventually share the pitch together.
"My son tells me: dad, hold on a few more years, I want to play with you!" he said back in 2022.
Ronaldo is still a stalwart on the international stage - scoring twice in Friday night's win over Poland - which further extends his record as the most prolific player ever on the international stage. He holds numerous records for his country but insists when he eventually stops playing for Portugal it will be a spur of the moment decision.
"When I decide to leave the national team, I'll do it spontaneously but thoughtfully. There won't be any advance announcements," he said.
Ronaldo has also dismissed the idea of swapping his kit for a suit and turning his hand to management. It is a well trodden path for the game's greats, but not for the former Real Madrid man. "I don’t see myself managing a team; that’s not in my plans. My future lies in other areas outside of football, although time will tell what happens," he once said.
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