Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement at end of season

Cristiano Ronaldo has sparked fresh speculation over his future after suggesting that the coming season could be the final chapter of his remarkable playing career.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain indicated that he expects the next year to be his last as a professional footballer, raising the prospect that one of the sport's most celebrated careers could soon come to an end.

Ronaldo has enjoyed an extraordinary career since making his senior debut for Sporting in 2002. He has gone on to win major honours with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus, while continuing to play at the highest level with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

Regarded as one of football's greatest-ever players, Ronaldo has collected numerous individual awards and team trophies during more than two decades in the professional game.

His comments are likely to intensify attention on how long he intends to continue representing Portugal and Al-Nassr, with supporters now facing the possibility of seeing the veteran forward enter the final season of his career.