Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy is already secured. He will go down in history as one of the greatest players of all time, and potentially as the greatest player to ever live. This summer will be an interesting one for the Portuguese, as he will head to North America with Portugal to take part in what will be his last World Cup finals. So what’s next for the global superstar?
A Final Shot At International Glory
Be under no illusions, Cristiano Ronaldo is already one of the all-time G.O.A.Ts, regardless of whether Portugal triumph at the World Cup or not. Ronaldo himself has spoken about his legacy and that it won’t be defined by winning or not winning a World Cup before his career ends. Although he will still head to North America, determined to win the tournament.
Online sports betting odds give Portugal an outside chance of lifting the trophy, but when you factor in the expanded format and how that can create opportunities for teams, winning the World Cup is not beyond Portugal, who have a squad full of talent and the X-factor of Ronaldo.
Target 1000
Ronaldo, at the age of 41, still has things he wants to achieve as a professional footballer, which has to be admired. He’s spoken about his desire to win more trophies before he calls time on his playing career, as well as a determination to hit the 1000 goals mark. At the time of writing, he’s within reach of his target. He’s scored 965 goals, meaning just 35 more will do the trick.
With Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, out injured with a hamstring strain, it feels highly unlikely that he can score another 35 goals in the current Saudi Pro League season. He will no doubt add to his tally between now and the end of the World Cup, before hitting 1000 goals next season, where he will continue to play for Al-Nassr after penning a new deal last summer.
Plans After Football Are Already In Place
Many people will look at Ronaldo and see him as a footballer, but he’s so much more than that. He’s a footballer, like David Beckham, who has transcended the sport and become a celebrity, a brand, and a businessman. Ronaldo continues to be one of the most recognised A-listers on the planet, and this has allowed him to build an empire and to put plans in place for life after football.
As well as being involved in many brand endorsements and having his own range of everything, from aftershave to underwear, Ronaldo has taken a big step in the football business world by investing in Spanish La Liga 2 side UD Almeria, purchasing a 25% shareholding. And, with the suggestion that this won’t be his last investment in football, could club ownership be on the cards as his major next venture?
Final Thoughts
We’ve all been lucky to watch Cristiano Ronaldo on the football pitch for years. And, his final appearance at a World Cup finals will be quite the moment, especially if he can inspire Portugal to go far. He’ll no doubt reach 1000 goals sooner rather than later, too, but it’s what he does after football that remains intriguing. If his playing career is anything to go by, whatever he turns his hand to will be a huge success.