What are Cristiano Ronaldo’s retirement plans?

With an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades coupled with remarkable dominance on the football pitch for years, Cristiano Ronaldo has recently been the centre of “retirement” rumour mill.

Ronaldo, who even at the age of 38 is still arguably the best in the game, has been the subject of rather harsh scrutiny from fans and critics alike after his abrupt exit from Manchester United and subsequent joining with Al Nassr in Saudi Pro League.

Responding to the hearsay, Ronaldo, following his side’s convincing 4-1 win against Al Waawoun, took to social media to respond to the hearsay.

“54 — I’ll say when it’s finished,” read the caption on Ronaldo’s Instagram post after the Portuguese striker netted another goal in his no less than remarkable calendar year.

The number 54 refers to the number of goals that Ronaldo managed to score in the calendar year — seemingly a euphemistic response to those who believe him to be in twilight of his career.

Ronaldo ends 2023 as the leading goalscorer in the year. Behind him are Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe with 52 each. A huge turnaround for a player who scored just 16 goals in 2022. If he continues like this, there is no reason as to why CR7 can’t continue to excel at the highest level.

The star footballer has already expressed his desire to secure at least five titles with Al Nassr before retiring. Therefore, it appears that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner isn't considering retirement in the near future.