Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name into the football history books, equalling a remarkable goalscoring record that had stood unchallenged for more than six decades.
Brace Seals Historic Feat for Al-Nassr
The Portuguese superstar, who will turn 41 in February, scored twice for Al-Nassr in their 3-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al Akhdoud on Saturday. His first-half double helped his side extend their lead at the top of the table to four points under manager Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo broke the deadlock after 31 minutes and added a second goal in first-half stoppage time, showcasing the enduring prowess that continues to define his career.
Tying an Arsenal Legend's Legacy
Those two strikes took Ronaldo's tally of goals scored after his 30th birthday to an incredible 493. This figure draws him level with former Arsenal, Fulham, and Crystal Palace striker Ronnie Rooke, whose record had remained untouched since 1961.
Rooke, an English forward, is best remembered for a prolific spell at Fulham during and after the Second World War, where he served as a physical training instructor in the RAF. His 212 goals in 199 wartime appearances for the Cottagers earned him a move to Arsenal in a unique deal involving £1,000 and two players.
Despite being 35 and having never played in the top flight, Rooke immediately excelled, becoming the First Division's top scorer with 33 goals in the 1947-48 season and helping Arsenal win the league title. He continued playing until the age of 50, finally retiring in 1961 and setting a benchmark that has now been matched by modern football's most prolific scorer.
Chasing 1,000 and More Glory in 2026
Ronaldo's latest milestone further cements his status as one of the game's greatest ever goalscorers. His career total now stands at a staggering 956 goals, with more than half coming after he entered his fourth decade.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has openly discussed his ambition to reach the 1,000-goal landmark. "I'm sure that when I finish, I'll be fulfilled, because I gave it my all," Ronaldo recently told Canal 11, addressing those who question his motivation. "I know I don't have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest."
The coming year promises to be monumental for Ronaldo. As well as closing in on 1,000 goals, 2026 offers the potential for his first Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr and a shot at World Cup glory with Portugal.
