At 39, Cristiano Ronaldo has now claimed that awards and records are “not the most important thing”, as the game’s top goal scorer admits that he does not “have much time left”.
Cristiano Ronaldo, now plying his trade with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has been in scintillating form, netting 50 goals last season and adding to his tally in the 2024-25 campaign.
The Portuguese legend on Monday scored the winning goal in Al-Nassr’s 2-1 AFC Champions League victory over Al Rayyan, a strike that held special significance as it coincided with what would have been his father’s 71st birthday.
An emotional Ronaldo told reporters afterwards, “We had an excellent performance, we created a lot of chances. Today’s goal had a different flavour, I would have loved my father to be alive because today is his birthday.”
Reflecting on his enduring success, Ronaldo emphasized his shifting priorities. “The most important thing is not to be considered the best player or to win awards,” he said. “The important thing is to enjoy it and to be useful to the club and the national team.”
Ronaldo, who has consistently broken records throughout his illustrious career, remains driven, albeit with a growing sense of mortality. “I still love playing football, and I know I don’t have much time left on the pitch,” he admitted.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is determined to reach 1,000 career goals before hanging up his boots. However, his contract with Al-Nassr expires in 2025, sparking speculation about his future, including his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup with Portugal.
For now, Ronaldo remains focused on the present, savouring every moment of his remarkable career.
“Records are part of me and I’m used to breaking them. I’ve felt pressure since the first day and I think I will feel it until the last,” he said, underscoring his unwavering commitment to excellence.
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