Every era in sports must eventually give way to the next. In 2025, fans are watching some of the greatest athletes of all time as they approach the twilight of their careers.
From football to basketball, tennis, motorsports, cricket, and more, these legends have defined their sports for decades, but their playing days are almost over.
From Messi and Ronaldo to LeBron and Tiger Woods, these icons have given fans unforgettable moments.
While retirement is inevitable, their legacies will live forever, and their exit marks the dawn of a new generation of stars ready to take over the sporting world.
Here are the top 18 athletes nearing retirement in 2025:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football, 40)
The Portuguese superstar has broken nearly every record imaginable. At 40, Ronaldo is still scoring goals, but his legendary career is winding down.
2. Lionel Messi (Football, 38)
Messi’s magic hasn’t faded at Inter Miami, but at 38, the GOAT debate may soon shift from his present form to his unmatched legacy.
3. Luka Modrić (Football, 39)
The Croatian midfielder remains a key figure at Real Madrid, yet his Ballon d’Or–winning career is almost at its end.
4. Zlatan Ibrahimović (Football, 43)
Officially retired in 2023, Zlatan remains one of the most colorful characters football has ever seen.
5. LeBron James (Basketball, 40)
Still defying time with the Lakers, LeBron’s eventual retirement will mark the end of an era in NBA history.
6. Stephen Curry (Basketball, 37)
The greatest shooter ever has changed basketball forever, but at 37, Curry is nearing his final years.
7. Kevin Durant (Basketball, 36)
One of the purest scorers in NBA history, Durant is still dangerous, though age and injuries are beginning to catch up with him.
8. Novak Djokovic (Tennis, 38)
With more Grand Slam titles than anyone, Djokovic has little left to prove. At 38, his historic reign is nearing its conclusion.
9. Conor McGregor (MMA, 37)
The Irish fighter has become more of a celebrity than a contender in recent years. At 37, injuries and form issues may soon push him into retirement.
10. Tiger Woods (Golf, 49)
Woods’ influence on golf is unmatched. At 49 and battling injuries, his time as a competitive golfer is almost over.
11. Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1, 40)
A seven-time world champion, Hamilton remains elite but at 40, retirement rumors are growing stronger.
12. Kyle Busch (NASCAR, 40)
The two-time NASCAR champion continues to compete but is now one of the sport’s elder statesmen.
13. MS Dhoni (Cricket, 44)
Though retired from international cricket, Dhoni still plays in the IPL. At 44, his playing career is on its final lap.
14. Rohit Sharma (Cricket, 38)
India’s captain and run-machine, Sharma is still reliable at 38, but the conversation around retirement is getting louder.
15. Virat Kohli (Cricket, 36)
Kohli remains India’s biggest star, though at 36, the cricketing world is preparing for his eventual exit.
16. Alex Ovechkin (Ice Hockey, 40)
Ovechkin is still chasing Gretzky’s scoring record. At 40, his legendary NHL career is in its closing stretch.
17. Sidney Crosby (Ice Hockey, 38)
The Penguins’ captain has been one of hockey’s greatest leaders. At 38, retirement is on the horizon.
18. John Cena (Wrestling, 48)
Cena’s WWE appearances are rare now as Hollywood takes center stage. At 48, his in-ring career is almost over.