Cristiano Ronaldo left the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai with more than just a trophy in hand.
The 40-year-old hinted that his football journey might not be confined to the Saudi Pro League, opening the door to a potential return to European competition as he continues his unprecedented pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
Ronaldo extended his career total to 956 with a decisive brace in Al-Nassr‘s 30 win over Al Akhdoud on Saturday, showing the world that he remains one of the sport’s most prolific finishers even in the latter stages of his career.
That victory also marked a record 10 straight Saudi Pro League wins for AlNassr, who now sit comfortably atop the domestic standings.
At the awards gala on Sunday, Ronaldo reiterated his longstanding ambition to keep playing and to hit the fourfigure scoring mark, a feat no male player has ever officially reached.
He was recognized as the Best Middle East Player for his contributions, an honor he has claimed multiple times in recent years.
When asked about what comes next, Ronaldo made it clear that his motivation hasn’t faded with age.
“My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe,” Ronaldo said, signaling that a move back to a European league is still on the table if the right opportunity arises.
“I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going.”
That desire to persist isn’t just about longevity for Ronaldo. It’s also about chasing history.
“I will reach the number (1000 goals) for sure, if no injuries,” he added, echoing his longheld target of netting 1,000 goals across club and country.
Longevity and legendary output
Ronaldo‘s consistency over more than two decades places him in a category of one when it comes to scoring.
With his night’s brace against Al Akhdoud taking him to 956, including 40 goals scored in 2025 alone, he’s maintained elite production at an age when most professionals have long retired.
His tally includes goals for Portugal, with whom he is expected to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and his club sides, where he has been a defining presence.
Even as he approaches 41, Ronaldo‘s physical condition remains remarkable, a testament to the regimen and discipline that have characterized his career.
Off the field, Ronaldo‘s strict fitness and nutrition routines are widely known and have often been cited as part of the reason he can still compete at such a high level late into his 30s and early 40s.
He adheres to a demanding schedule that includes Pilates, swimming, frequent gym sessions, and careful attention to meals and recovery, lifestyle choices he has discussed publicly in interviews.
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