The "Messi-Ronaldo era" that has dominated world football for 20 years is coming to an end. Messi, 39, expressed his intention to retire after recently losing his father. Following him, Ronaldo, 41, also stated that "this season will be my last."

Ronaldo said in an interview with Vogue fashion magazine, which was published on the 17th, "This season might be my last year in football." He also said, "I hope to leave a beautiful legacy."

In the past, although Ronaldo had mentioned leaving the national team or bidding farewell to important cup competitions, this is the first time he has explicitly mentioned "retirement." When talking about his plans after retirement, Ronaldo said, "Because football will leave a big void, I can't just do one thing; I need to fill my time in various ways." He also said that there will be many things to keep him busy after retirement.

He then stated, "I will enjoy life more, travel often, and also play and watch padel, which I really like." He added, "After making so many sacrifices over the past 25 years, I want to fully enjoy everything my family and I have achieved during these years."

The Saudi Professional League, where Ronaldo plays, began its 2026-27 season on the 13th, with the regular season lasting until the end of May 2027. According to his plan, the era of "player Ronaldo" will officially end in May next year.

Ronaldo made his professional debut in 2002 at Sporting CP (Portugal), then played for Manchester United (England), Real Madrid (Spain), and Juventus (Italy), and has now spent 24 years of his top-level professional career at Al Nassr.

Since 2008, he and his "lifelong rival" Messi have annually shared the world's best player awards, ushering in their era. Ronaldo has won the Ballon d'Or five times (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017), while Messi holds the historical record with eight wins (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023).

In terms of goals scored, Ronaldo is significantly ahead. He has scored a total of 976 goals for clubs and national teams, making him the sole leader in the historical goalscorer list, and is aiming to reach 1000 goals before retiring. Messi ranks second with 924 goals.

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