Ronaldo Won’t Set a Retirement Date, Though He Knows Time Is Running Out

Cristiano Ronaldo has addressed talk about when he will retire. He says he has no specific date in mind, even though he knows time is running out on his playing days.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar has made it clear he intends to keep playing for now. He is taking a day-by-day approach to his career. “My mentality is to live day by day. I don’t have many more years to play… but I’m enjoying the moment,” Ronaldo said. He emphasized there is “NO day decided” for his retirement, adding that he’ll keep playing “until the day I like this.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Despite turning 40 earlier this year, Ronaldo still performs at a high level. The Al Nassr forward has enjoyed a great season, scoring 33 goals in 39 matches across all competitions. Recent tests by fitness tracking company Whoop showed his biological age is just 28.9 years – about 11 years younger than his actual age.

This information seems to have influenced Ronaldo’s outlook on his career. During an appearance on the Whoop podcast, he joked: “That means I’m going to be playing football for another 10 years!” Ronaldo’s daily routine includes about 17,000 steps and seven hours of sleep, which he calls “probably the most important tool” for recovery.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR RONALDO?

With his Al Nassr contract expiring on June 30, Ronaldo has a big decision about his future. Reports say he has agreed to an extension with the Saudi club, though he is unhappy with the lack of trophies and may want changes in the organization even if he stays.

According to Portugal coach Roberto Martinez, Ronaldo is still important to the national team, though he may not always start. With Euro 2024 approaching this summer, Ronaldo will aim to lead his country again on the international stage as they play in Group F with Türkiye, Czechia, and Georgia. Portugal’s opening match against Czechia is set for June 18 in Leipzig.