Brazilian striker Ronaldo has revealed that he will retire from football at the end of next year.
The former World Player of the Year has signed a new two-year deal with Corinthians which expires on 31st December, 2011.
Ronaldo will then retire when the contract ends and he hopes to go out on a high.
“I have extended my contract for another two years and that will be the last of my career,” he told reporters.
“I want to give my all, have fun and finish with some major achievements.”
Ronaldo, who has been dogged by injuries in recent years, plans to become a Corinthians ambassador when he retires.
“The crowd that follow us is very passionate,” he stated.
“I am increasingly fond of this club. It has been a wonderful chapter of my life here in Sao Paulo.”
The player’s agent Fabiano Farah added: “Ronaldo will become a representative of Corinthians abroad.
“We will combine his name and the importance it has with the strength of the club.”
Ronaldo, who, with 15 goals, is the highest scorer in the history of the World Cup, has not played for Brazil under Dunga but still hopes to go to the World Cup in South Africa this summer.
“About the World Cup, we’ll see,” he said. “I still have a chance of going.
“But for 2014 (when Brazil host the tournament), it is impossible. It is a long way off and time is moving on.”
