The five-time Ballon d’Or winner be turning 40 on February 5. Most players have hung up their boots long before reaching that point, but CR7 is not your everyday footballer. He has reached the very top of his chosen profession and stayed there for the best part of two decades.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Retirement is closer than it has ever been, with Ronaldo conceding that he can no longer plan “long-term”, but the evergreen frontman has no intention of walking away any time soon. He is maintaining remarkable standards at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, with goals continuing to flow in a bid to reach 1,000.
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WHAT CRISTIANO RONALDO SAID
Ronaldo has told when asked about his present and future: “I could quit the sport today and I wouldn't regret anything, but it would be a shame because I'm still very good, I'm still making a difference. I would leave myself saying 'I can still make a difference for another year or two', that's why I live very much in the present and I can't think long term.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Relentless work ethic has allowed Ronaldo to remain at the pinnacle of world football, with the ex-Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus superstar working harder than everybody else. He claims to have eased off slightly, as family commitments take up more of his time, but remains fiercely competitive.