Cristiano Ronaldo has fuelled speculation over his retirement plans after admitting that the upcoming season will probably be the final year of his playing career.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain is one of the most decorated players in football history, having won major trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and his current club Al Nassr since making his senior debut for Sporting in 2002.

Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, was unable to add a World Cup title to his long list of achievements after Portugal fell short at this year’s tournament, leaving the biggest prize in international football missing from his trophy cabinet.

“This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” Ronaldo told lifestyle magazine Vogue in an interview published on Sunday.

The forward has scored 976 goals for club and country during a remarkable career spanning more than two decades.

“I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one,” he said.

“And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned, what we’ve earned. Because after all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”

Ronaldo will continue to play for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr during the upcoming season as he closes in on the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.