The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s fresh agreement ensures he will continue playing until at least age 42, offering him the opportunity to build upon his already record-setting career.
“A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together,” Ronaldo expressed in a social media update, sharing a photo of himself with a jersey that read “Ronaldo 2027.”
A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together. ???????? pic.twitter.com/JRwwjEcSZR
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 26, 2025
This contract allows Ronaldo to continue his journey in Saudi Arabia, where he initially joined Al Nassr at the close of 2022, marking one of the most surprising transfers in soccer history after departing Manchester United. Reports indicated the deal could be valued at up to $200 million annually, prompting high-profile players like Neymar and Karim Benzema to leave Europe for the affluent nation.
As his contract approached its end, the 40-year-old Ronaldo ignited speculation last month by remarking that the “chapter is over.” However, he dispelled doubts on Thursday, reaffirming his commitment with the statement “Al Nassr forever” in the club’s announcement.
This agreement underscores the former Real Madrid star’s desire for further achievements. Transitioning to a less competitive league hasn’t diminished his standing with the national team.
Having garnered 28 major trophies with club and country, the five-time Champions League winner recently aided Portugal in capturing the UEFA Nations League title. He holds the record as the all-time leading scorer in the Champions League with 141 goals.
The World Cup remains the only significant accolade absent from his collection, and he may have one last opportunity to seize soccer’s most prestigious trophy at next year’s tournament.
While he has significantly elevated the profile of Saudi Arabian soccer, scoring 77 goals in 74 league appearances, trophies have been elusive at Al Nassr.
He secured one title thus far—the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023—but has yet to clinch the Saudi Pro League in three attempts.
Nonetheless, his recent contract was celebrated by the club, which shared a video of him strolling along the beach, captioned “The Story continues..” accompanied by emojis of a goat and a gold heart.
Many regard Ronaldo as soccer’s greatest of all time, often referred to as the “GOAT.”
His longstanding rivalry with Lionel Messi has defined their generation, peaking during their tenures at Real Madrid and Barcelona, respectively.
In recent years, the intensity of this rivalry has waned as both players enter the twilight of their careers, now competing in less prominent leagues, with Messi joining MLS side Inter Miami in 2023.
