Ronaldo sets sights on 1,000 goals before retiring

By Martin Graham

Career extension in Saudi ArabiaReflections on final years and international future

Cristiano Ronaldo insists he will continue playing until he reaches 1,000 career goals, pushing back any thoughts of retirement. The Portugal skipper, now 40, believes he still has enough motivation to keep competing.

He recently struck twice in Al-Nassr’s 3-0 victory over Al Akhdoud, lifting his combined total for club and country to 956. Ronaldo acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining his level but stressed his enthusiasm remains undiminished.

Speaking after being named Best Middle East Player at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, he highlighted passion as the main reason he continues. He also underlined that the location of his career does not matter, whether in Europe or the Middle East.

Ronaldo reaffirmed his ambition to reach the 1,000-goal mark, stating he believes it is achievable as long as he avoids major injuries.

Career extension in Saudi Arabia

The forward joined Al-Nassr in 2022 and extended his time in Saudi Arabia last July with a two-year contract. The deal ensures he will remain with the club beyond his 42nd birthday.

So far this campaign, he has registered 13 goals from 14 appearances. His contributions have helped Al-Nassr climb to the top of the Saudi Pro League standings, where they currently lead by four points.

Despite his output, silverware has been limited. Since his arrival, the club has lifted only the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023. His individual statistics, including 112 goals in 125 appearances, underline his impact.

Ronaldo remains the only player to have reached a century of goals for four different clubs: Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr.

Reflections on final years and international future

In a recent conversation with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo hinted that retirement is approaching. He admitted that stepping away from football will be emotional, saying he expects to cry when the moment comes.

He confirmed that the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be his final international competition. The tournament would mark the end of a national team career that includes 143 goals for Portugal.

Ronaldo previously led his country to Euro 2016 glory in France, earning Portugal’s first major men’s trophy. That achievement remains a defining moment of his international journey.

While he accepts that continuing is challenging, Ronaldo believes his determination is stronger than the obstacles. With his target clear, he plans to persevere until the milestone is reached.