Cristiano Ronaldo says this is likely his last year in football

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portuguese forward, has said that the current season is likely to be his last as a professional footballer. In an interview with Vogue magazine, published after his wedding to Georgina Rodriguez, he stated: "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy" Source: AP News. Ronaldo, who has scored 976 career goals, is closing in on the milestone of 1,000 goals, a target he could reach while playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr this season Source: CNN. His contract with Al-Nassr expires next June Source: AP News.

Career highlights

Ronaldo has won five Ballon d'Or awards and five UEFA Champions League titles during a career that has included stints at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus Source: CNN. He also captained Portugal to victory in the 2016 UEFA European Championship Source: Euronews. Last season, his 28 league goals helped Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League title, his first trophy since joining the club Source: AP News.

Retirement plans

Ronaldo said he has his future "all mapped out" and plans to fill his time with activities such as travel and playing padel Source: Al Jazeera. He also mentioned wanting to spend more time with family Source: CNN. His comments come shortly after long-time rival Lionel Messi hinted he may also retire soon, saying, "I don't know how to carry on" Source: AP News.

What's next

Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr's opening match of the season on Saturday, watching from the sidelines as the team won 3-0 against Al-Fateh Source: AP News. He could return to action in the King's Cup on Tuesday Source: AP News. Whether he will reach the 1,000-goal milestone before retiring remains to be seen.