Cristiano Ronaldo has sent shockwaves through the football world by suggesting he could make a dramatic return to European football. The Portuguese icon, now 40, remains fiercely ambitious, publicly reiterating his target of reaching an astonishing 1,000 career goals.
The Road to a Thousand Goals
Ronaldo edged closer to his monumental target by scoring a brace for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr in their 3-0 victory over Al Akhdoud on Saturday afternoon. Those strikes took his remarkable career tally to 956 goals. Speaking at the prestigious Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Sunday, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward offered a fresh insight into his future, stating his passion remains undimmed.
"My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn't matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe," Ronaldo declared. "I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going." This comment marks a significant shift, openly floating a potential comeback to the continent where he built his legendary status.
His double at the weekend also meant he has now scored 40 goals in the 2024 calendar year. This is the 14th separate year in his professional career where he has netted 40 or more times, a testament to his relentless consistency. His most prolific year remains 2013, when he found the net 63 times for club and country.
The Ageless Athlete's Regime
Ronaldo's ability to perform at the highest level in his fifth decade is no accident. He recently shared a shirtless photo showcasing his incredible physique, which is maintained through a gruelling and meticulous routine. In a recent interview, he suggested he is only one or two years away from retirement, aiming to continue as long as he stays injury-free.
His fitness secrets include a sworn dedication to Pilates, regular swims, and five weekly gym sessions. Each workout lasts three to four hours and incorporates 25-30 minutes of cardio, high-intensity sprinting, and targeted weight training. Nutritionally, he breaks from tradition, refuelling with six smaller 'mini-meals' throughout the day instead of three large ones.
Awards Night and Personal Milestones
The Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai was a family affair for Ronaldo, who attended with his fiancée, Georgina Rodriguez. The couple, together for nine years, announced their engagement in August, with Ronaldo presenting the Argentine-Spanish model with a ring reportedly worth £2.2 million.
On the professional front, Ronaldo picked up the Best Middle East Player award for the second consecutive year. The event, attended by stars like Novak Djokovic and footballers Ousmane Dembele and Lamine Yamal, also saw a poignant moment. The parents of the late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who passed away in July aged 28, were honoured with a special award, receiving an emotional tribute.
As Ronaldo continues to defy time and rewrite the record books, his latest comments have set the stage for a fascinating final chapter. Whether he achieves his 1,000-goal quest in the Middle East or makes a fairytale return to Europe, his unwavering drive ensures his story is far from over.
