Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Intentions to Retire from Professional Football: Signs Final 3-Year Deal to Play and Retire with Honor…
Lisbon, Portugal – In what marks the beginning of the end for one of the greatest football careers in history, global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his intention to retire from professional football, signing a final three-year playing contract that will lead into a ceremonial farewell and retirement. The 39-year-old legend revealed this historic decision in an emotional press conference held in Lisbon, surrounded by family, former teammates, and representatives from clubs and leagues that shaped his illustrious journey.
The Portuguese superstar confirmed that this final chapter will see him continue playing at the highest level before transitioning into retirement, with a series of celebratory matches, public tributes, and ambassadorial roles scheduled across multiple continents. This three-year contract, signed with his current club Al Nassr, will serve as a bridge between active competition and the graceful closure of a career that defined a generation.
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An Emotional Revelation
“I knew this day would come,” Ronaldo began, his voice resonating with emotion. “But I wanted to choose how and when it happens. I’m proud to announce that I’ve signed my final contract as a professional footballer. These next three years will be about giving everything I have left to the game I love. And when I retire, I’ll walk away fulfilled, grateful, and at peace.”
The announcement was met with a standing ovation, as fans watching live from across the world flooded social media with emotional tributes, calling Ronaldo’s decision both graceful and inspiring. The announcement also brought clarity to months of speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s future, with many questioning how long the five-time Ballon d’Or winner intended to prolong his playing career.
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The Final Contract: What It Means
Cristiano Ronaldo’s final contract is unlike any other in football history—not just in terms of its symbolic weight, but in its structure and objectives.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the contract includes:
A three-year commitment with Al Nassr, extending until June 2028, when Ronaldo turns 43
A “Farewell Season” clause, which will include testimonial matches across Portugal, Spain, England, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and the United States
Legacy incentives, including the development of a youth football academy under his name
Post-retirement ambassadorial roles with FIFA, UEFA, and the Portuguese Football Federation
A final retirement ceremony in Madeira, his birthplace, where a statue and a global tribute match will be held
Al Nassr President Musalli Al-Muammar stated, “We are honored that Cristiano has chosen to conclude his career with us. His commitment, professionalism, and relentless passion have elevated our club and Saudi football. Now, we embark on a journey not just to celebrate his final seasons, but to honor his legacy forever.”
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A Journey Like No Other
Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro’s journey from the streets of Madeira to global stardom is the stuff of legends. Over a two-decade-long career, he has shattered records, redefined athleticism, and inspired billions.
Career highlights include:
5 Ballon d’Or titles (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
7 league titles across England (Manchester United), Spain (Real Madrid), and Italy (Juventus)
Champions League triumphs with Manchester United and Real Madrid
Over 850 career goals, including the most international goals in men’s football history
UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League 2019 winner with Portugal
Former teammates and rivals including Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, Sergio Ramos, and Rio Ferdinand issued heartfelt messages on social media. Lionel Messi, his long-time rival, posted:
> “No rivalry lasts forever, but respect does. Congratulations on a phenomenal career, Cristiano. Football was better because of you.”
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What the Retirement Plan Looks Like
While Ronaldo will continue to play competitively over the next two seasons, the final year of his contract—2027-2028—will be structured as a global farewell tour. The aim is to allow fans worldwide to bid farewell to their hero, with each match representing a city or region that was vital to his football legacy.
Confirmed events include:
Farewell Match in Manchester – at Old Trafford, where his legend began
Tribute Game at the Bernabéu – in Madrid, where he became a Galáctico
Celebration Match in Turin – honoring his contribution to Juventus
Final Match in Madeira – where he will play a ceremonial match for Nacional, his first professional club
Portugal’s Prime Minister has already announced a national holiday will be observed on the date of his final match in Lisbon, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude.
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Family, Faith, and the Future
Ronaldo also used the announcement to speak about his family and post-retirement plans.
“My children have grown watching me on the pitch. Now I want them to watch me as a father who’s present every day,” Ronaldo said. “I’ll continue working in football—perhaps as a mentor, an academy founder, or even a coach. But I’ll also rest. I’ll breathe. I’ve earned that.”
His partner Georgina Rodríguez, present at the press conference with their children, held back tears as Ronaldo thanked her for her unwavering support. “Without her, none of this would be possible,” he said.
He also emphasized his continued philanthropic work through the Cristiano Ronaldo Foundation, which supports children’s hospitals, education, and refugee relief efforts across the globe.
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The Reaction: Global Tribute Begins
Social media, sports networks, and news outlets lit up following the announcement. The phrase “Thank You, Ronaldo” trended globally for hours, with fans from every corner of the planet sharing photos, goals, and memories of the icon who redefined an era.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented:
> “Cristiano Ronaldo is a living monument of the beautiful game. His legacy will live forever—not just in goals and trophies, but in hearts.”
Nike, one of Ronaldo’s lifelong sponsors, is reportedly planning a “CR7 Farewell” collection, including commemorative boots, jerseys, and a short documentary celebrating his career.
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A Legend’s Legacy
For many, Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t just a footballer—he’s a symbol of ambition, discipline, and greatness. His journey from a humble upbringing in Madeira to global superstardom has inspired a generation of athletes across sports. His final three years in the game are expected to be a celebration of that inspiration.
Fans will watch not only to see how many more records he can break but to cherish the last goals, the last sprints, the last iconic celebrations—arms spread, chest out, shouting “Siiiiuuuu” into packed stadiums.
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Final Words
Cristiano Ronaldo has spent over 20 years conquering the football world—on every stage, in every league, in every condition. And now, with dignity and foresight, he has begun writing the final act of his footballing story.
“This is not a goodbye yet,” Ronaldo concluded. “It’s the beginning of the end—and I want every minute to count.”
As the world prepares to witness the final chapters of a living legend, one thing is clear: football will never be the same without Cristiano Ronaldo, but it will forever carry his name.
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