In a candid and wide-ranging new interview with Piers Morgan, football icon Cristiano Ronaldo offered a startling perspective on the one trophy that has eluded him: the FIFA World Cup. When asked if lifting the coveted cup was a lingering dream, Ronaldo responded with a definitive “No,” challenging the very notion that a single, short tournament should define a player’s entire legacy. “To define if I am one of the best in history? To win one competition? 6 games, 7 games. You think it’s fair?” he questioned, framing his career legacy not around a fleeting month of football, but over two decades of sustained, global excellence.
Beyond his bold stance on the World Cup, the Portuguese superstar turned his gaze to the future, confirming that his legendary playing career is drawing to a close. With a tone of poignant acceptance, Ronaldo admitted, “Soon. I think I will be prepared. It will be tough, of course… Probably I will cry, yes.” However, he emphasized his long-term planning, stating he has been preparing for this transition since his mid-twenties. This emotional yet pragmatic outlook reveals a man steeling himself for the immense void that retirement from professional football will bring.
So, what comes next for Cristiano Ronaldo after he hangs up his boots? The Al Nassr forward painted a picture of a life dedicated to family and new passions, a stark contrast to his current 24/7 focus on football. “I want to be more a family person, more present,” he stated, outlining his desire to raise his kids and enjoy hobbies like watching UFC and playing padel. He also confirmed he will dive into his business ventures, seeking to “learn more about my companies,” signaling a deliberate shift from the pitch to the boardroom.
Ronaldo was clear, however, that while he will explore these “funny things,” the adrenaline of scoring a goal is irreplaceable. He firmly ruled out one potential post-retirement path, declaring, “I’ll never be a YouTuber.” This final statement solidifies the image of a man meticulously crafting his next chapter—one centered on family, business, and personal growth—on his own terms, ensuring that his immense influence will extend far beyond the final whistle of his storied career.