Football star Cristiano Ronaldo (41, Al-Nassr) has hinted at retirement, stating that the upcoming season is likely to be his final year as an active player.

In an interview with Vogue magazine released today (August 17), Ronaldo said, "This year will probably be the final year of my football career," adding, "I want to leave with a wonderful legacy."

Debuting professionally in 2002 with Sporting CP in Portugal, Ronaldo has lifted numerous championship trophies across stints with Manchester United (England), Real Madrid (Spain), Juventus (Italy), and currently Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia), establishing himself as one of the greatest football players of all time.

Having claimed the prestigious Ballon d'Or award five times, he is now expected to conclude his career without ever adding a World Cup trophy to his collection.

When asked about his plans after retirement, he responded, "Since the void left by football could be massive, I need to fill my time in various ways rather than just one. There will be plenty of things to keep me busy after I retire."

He added, "I will enjoy life more, travel frequently, and play and watch padel (a racquet sport) which I truly love. As the past 25 years have involved many sacrifices, I want to fully enjoy what I and we (my family) have achieved."

Having reigned as one of the world's top forwards for over 20 years, Ronaldo has amassed an astonishing 976 goals combined for club and country.

Approaching the twilight of his active career, Ronaldo will don the Al-Nassr kit once again for the upcoming season as he pursues the unprecedented milestone of 1,000 career goals.

(Photo: Yonhap News)