Cristiano Ronaldo has never been a stranger to the spotlight, nor to questions about when he might finally step away from soccer. Now 40 years old, with more than 900 career goals, five Ballon d’Or awards, and over two decades at the top of the game, it’s a fair question. And ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League final clash with Spain, the soccer icon offered his clearest answer yet—though one laced with characteristic mystery.
Ronaldo didn’t provide a timeline or a farewell tour announcement. Instead, he delivered a simple but powerful four-word statement that encapsulates his enduring love for the game and hints that the end, while inevitable, is not imminent.
What did Ronaldo say about his retirement plans?
The press conference came just hours before what could be another crowning moment in a legendary international career. But Ronaldo, whose contract with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia ends at the end of June, was calm, reflective, and—most of all—present.
“When will I end my career? You know, my attitude to life is like this: I live every day and try to enjoy the moment,” he told reporters. “I know that my career in soccer is not long, but at the moment I enjoy the game at a high level. Today, tomorrow or another day — I have not made a clear decision about this.”
The Portugal captain added, “I am only here to play football and enjoy the process. Football gives me happiness, that is why I am still on the field.”
That four-word phrase—“I’m here to enjoy”—has quickly become a focal point of discussion among fans and pundits alike. It sums up the 40-year-old’s current mindset: not chasing records or accolades, but relishing each moment he has left in the game.
Career for the ages
Few players have accomplished what Ronaldo has since making his debut for Sporting Lisbon in 2002. His career has spanned five major clubs—Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr—and brought him success in nearly every league he’s played in.
He’s also had a prolific international career, becoming Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and winning the Euro 2016 and Nations League in 2019. And now, he’s chasing another trophy with the national team—perhaps one of his last. Still, he knows reality looms.
“My mentality is to live day by day,” Ronaldo added. “I don’t have many more years to play…but I’m enjoying the moment. There’s no day decided for my retirement. I feel happy, I’m here to enjoy and keep going until the day I [don’t feel] like this.”
