Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo affirmed that he still has the energy and passion to compete with younger players, expressing his hunger for more achievements on the pitch—even as his family urges him to ease the physical burden.
The Al-Nassr striker and all-time leading international scorer with 141 goals in 223 matches for Portugal said he wants to continue playing, despite his family’s wishes
At age 40, Ronaldo has scored 5 goals in 6 matches across all competitions for Al-Nassr this season. He recently became the joint top scorer in World Cup qualifiers, netting his 39th goal in a win over Hungary.
Speaking to Canal 11 during a tribute ceremony, Ronaldo said:
“People—especially my family—say: ‘It’s time to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score 1,000 goals?’ But I don’t see it that way. I believe I’m still performing well and helping my club and national team. So why stop?”
He added:
“I’m sure I’ll feel satisfied when I retire because I gave everything. I know I don’t have many years left, but I’m trying to enjoy the remaining ones to the fullest.”
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, received another prestigious honor on Tuesday: the “Excellence Award” at the Portugal Football Awards.
He said:
“This isn’t a farewell award—it’s recognition for years of effort, dedication, and ambition. I love winning and helping younger generations. They also help me maintain my level and keep
competing. That’s what excites me: competing with the youth. I’m still passionate about it.”
Ronaldo has not announced a retirement date. He recently signed a new contract with Al-Nassr that keeps him in the Saudi Pro League until June 2027. He also led Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League last June.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has scored over 940 goals in his career.
“I always say, if I could, I’d play only for the national team and not for any club—because that’s the pinnacle for a footballer,” he said. “It’s an honor to play for the national team.
The 2026 World Cup may be Ronaldo’s last chance to win the elusive trophy. For now, he’s focused on the task ahead.
Portugal hosts Ireland in World Cup qualifiers this Saturday, followed by a match against Hungary on October 14.
Ronaldo concluded:
“I’m confident the upcoming matches will go well and that we’ll qualify for the World Cup.Our goal is to go there and win—but we must take it step by step.”
