45 is definitely not an age where it's "time to retire". Look at Seiko or Yuming. However, even if she doesn't retire this year/next year, I unfortunately doubt that we're going to see Ayu perform at 60. As much as it hurts to think about it, I don't think her ear will last this long.
In a sense, her career is like a bomb that could go off any time.. It's been 6 years since she announced that her right ear is deteriorating, so who knows how many years she has left.
It's heartbreaking but Ayu's career was always going to be 'cut short' probably. I know there are deaf singers but I don't think Ayu could perform at her current level with no hearing at all. I just hope her right ear works for as long as it possibly can.
I actually think her energy level at the latest CDL was much better than it has been in other shows since 2020 (though those were still great imo). She seemed happy, moved a lot more again & just gave me less restrained vibe, which is probably related to her not having to deal with a broken ankle or having given birth less than a year ago, as it was the case in both 2020 and 2021.
Vocally it was less controlled than CDL21-22 but most of the performances were solid, especially considering the song choices and her having some issues with her in-ear monitor.
Nontheless, I'm really glad when we finally know what this is all about.