Cristiano Ronaldo Opens Up: Retirement, Legacy, and Life Beyond Football
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has once again sat down for a candid conversation with British broadcaster Piers Morgan.
Unlike their fiery 2022 interview that preceded his Manchester United exit, this chat revealed a far more reflective Ronaldo.
The superstar, now 40 and still dazzling for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, spoke openly about retirement, his passions, and his unique perspective on the World Cup.
The World Cup: Not a Defining Obsession
When asked if winning the World Cup remained an unfulfilled dream, Ronaldo’s answer was direct and clear.
“No, it’s not a dream,” he stated, challenging the idea that a single tournament could define his illustrious career.
“To define if I am one of the best in history? To win one competition? Six or seven games. You think that’s fair?” he questioned, highlighting his belief in a broader measure of greatness.
Retirement on the Horizon: “Soon, I Think I Will Be Prepared”
Ronaldo admitted that hanging up his boots is no longer a distant prospect. “Soon. I think I will be prepared,” he confessed.
He acknowledged the emotional challenge ahead: “It will be tough, of course. Probably I will cry, yes.”
However, the football icon revealed he’s been preparing for this transition for a long time. “But I’ve been preparing for this moment since I was 25 or 26. I think I’ll be ready to handle that pressure.”
Life Beyond the Pitch: New Passions Await
Looking forward, Ronaldo expressed a desire to slow down and dedicate more time to his loved ones and other interests.
“Nothing compares to scoring a goal, but I have other passions,” he shared.
His post-retirement plans include a mix of family time and new adventures:
- Spending quality time with his kids and family.
- Enjoying sports like UFC.
- Playing Padel, a growing racket sport.
- Focusing on his various business ventures.
While he quickly ruled out becoming a YouTuber, Ronaldo hinted at exploring new horizons. “I’ll never be a YouTuber, but I want to learn and do funny things I’ve never done before.”
“Football has been my life 24 hours a day — it’s time to discover the rest,” he concluded, eagerly anticipating a new chapter.
Conclusion: A Legend’s Evolving Legacy
Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest interview offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a player nearing the end of an unparalleled career.
His reflections show a maturing perspective, one that values family, new experiences, and a legacy built on more than just tournament wins.
As the era of CR7 on the pitch draws closer to its natural conclusion, the world eagerly watches to see what “the rest” of his remarkable journey will entail.