Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted for the first time in his career he could retire as early as next year. The Juventus forward who is looking to win the UEFA Champions League with a third different club this season is one of the fittest players in the European circuit. His statement will come as a surprise for fans world over who have been watching him conquer the world for the best part of more than a decade now. He continues to dominate headlines at the club level and captains Portugal for whom he has won two honours. Cristiano Ronaldo, a Narcissist? Former Man United Teammate Diego Forlan Claims Juventus Forward Spent ‘All Day Looking in the Mirror’.

Cristiano Ronaldo in a candid interview with TVI, claimed he did not think about how long he will continue playing football. "I don't think about that," Ronaldo was quoted on Tuesday. As per Ronaldo, it could very well be next year or drag into his forties. "Maybe I can finish my career next year... but I can also play up to 40 or 41." He continued saying, "I don't know. What I always say is to enjoy the moment. The gift is excellent and I have to continue to enjoy it."

The Portuguese skipper likened football to a gift that he has been lucky enough to enjoy for such a long time. He also wasted little time in racking up the best of all-time debate as he said no other player has more records than him in football. Lionel Messi, his rival in the modern era though will have a thing or two to say about this though.

With league wins in England, Spain and Italy and five Champions League titles to go with a host of individual trophies, Cristiano Ronaldo is a living legend. His Juventus team-mate Sami Khedira considers him as a superstar of the game and compared him with the likes of Lebron James in basketball. We can next see Cristiano Ronaldo in action this weekend away at Parma as his club Juventus begin their defence of their Serie A title.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 21, 2019 12:56 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).