Portugal international and Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo has openly acknowledged that his legendary football career is nearing its end. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who left Manchester United to join the Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr in December 2022, has experienced a shift in focus as he approaches the final stages of his playing days.
At 39, Ronaldo’s priority is no longer about being the best or winning individual accolades. Instead, he’s focused on enjoying the game and contributing to his team’s success. After scoring in a 2-1 victory over Al Rayyan in the AFC Champions League, Ronaldo reflected on this phase of his career, saying, “I’m just enjoying playing football now, knowing I don’t have much time left on the pitch.”
He added, “It’s no longer about being the best or winning trophies. What matters to me now is enjoying the game and helping my team.”
Following his goal against Al Rayyan on September 30, Ronaldo celebrated by pointing to the sky with both hands raised—a tribute to his late father. He later revealed, “Today’s goal had a special meaning. I wish my father was alive, as today is his birthday.”