Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectations, showcasing his remarkable talent on the football field as he celebrates his 40th birthday. Just days before this milestone, the Al Nassr captain delivered a decisive performance against Al Raed, scoring the opening goal and assisting Nawaf Bu Washl for the game-winner in their 2-1 victory. This win propelled Al Nassr to third place in the Roshn Saudi League (RSL), narrowing the gap to just eight points behind league leaders Al Hilal and Al Ittihad. Ronaldo, with 15 goals to his name, leads the 2024-25 scoring charts and remains on track to defend his top scorer title from the previous season.
Ronaldo’s brilliance wasn’t limited to league games. On Monday, during the AFC Champions League Elite match, he netted a brace in Al Nassr’s commanding 4-0 win over Al Wasl, further cementing his dominance in the continental competition with six goals in five matches. Even at 40, he continues to challenge the norms, displaying incredible stats that prove his enduring excellence. With unparalleled fitness and skill, Ronaldo remains a force to be reckoned with, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
This season in the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo has demonstrated exceptional consistency and endurance, playing 17 out of 18 matches for Al Nassr and accumulating 1,523 minutes on the pitch. His tally of 78 shots leads the league, with a remarkable minutes-per-goal ratio of 101 and an expected goals (xG) tally of 15.14. Beyond scoring, Ronaldo has also contributed significantly to team play, creating 22 chances, including six big opportunities, and tying with Karim Benzema for the highest goal contributions this season (18). These numbers are a testament to his tireless work ethic and ability to adapt to new challenges.
Ronaldo’s career statistics remain unmatched. With 923 career goals, including 87 at Al Nassr, he has achieved feats most players can only dream of. He holds records for the most goals in men’s international football (135), scoring in five FIFA World Cups, and the highest number of goals in the UEFA European Championship (14). Additionally, he has scored over 50 goals in nine different seasons, including an astonishing 57 goals in the 2023-24 campaign. Ronaldo’s 66 career hat-tricks and record-breaking performances in the RSL highlight his ability to maintain elite form over two decades.
Despite his accolades, Ronaldo remains humble and driven. In a recent interview, he reflected on his journey and expressed his commitment to staying in the game. While acknowledging his incredible achievements, he emphasized his passion for football and his desire to keep making a difference on the field. “I could quit today and have no regrets, but I know I can still contribute,” Ronaldo shared. This determination to keep pushing boundaries is what makes him not just a football legend but an inspiration to athletes worldwide.