Cristiano Ronaldo: Setting New Records at 39 in Saudi
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest footballers in the history of the sport. From starting his career in his home country to moving to England, then Spain, then Italy, returning to England, and moving to Saudi Arabia, he has been at the top of his game.
The Portugal national team captain turned 39 in February, and it looks like his peak has never gone. Ronaldo has several records to his name, with the biggest one being the highest goal-scorer in international football. In addition to this, he has broken several records and is still creating history.
Al Nassr’s forward moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023. He just finished his first full season for the Riyadh based club and created a new record in Saudi football history.
On the final day of the Saudi Pro League 2023–24 season, Ronaldo was on the verge of breaking a record that was set just a few years back. Abderrazak Hamdallah scored 34 goals in the 2018-19 season. This was the best ever goal tally in the history of the league.
Al Nassr was playing Al Ittihad at home. The Portuguese star needed two goals to get past Hamdallah’s record. Abderrazak Hamdallah played for Al Nassr at that time and currently plays for Al Ittihad. He was ruled out of the tie due to an injury.
Cristiano Ronaldo had 33 goals in 30 appearances. In his final appearance of the season, the forward was looking sharp as ever. He scored his first goal of the evening towards the end of the first half. Ronaldo came with more hunger in the second half. His shot was saved by the keeper, and that resulted in a corner. Marcelo Brozovic took the responsibility and delivered a delicious cross. Ronaldo did what he has done throughout his career, dominate in the air and score a header. He headed past the opposition goalkeeper and created a new record.
Following his heroics, the forward made a few statements on social media and during an interview. He said, “I’m very happy. Firstly, because the team won and finished the league well. Then, to break a league goal record, I have to confess that it makes me very happy, I wasn’t expecting it. For me, it’s important.” The most important [thing] is always the team. We are in good shape. We ended the league well, and now we have to win the Kings Cup.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner added another Golden Boot to his elite collection. His trophy collection consists of league titles in England, Spain, and Italy. Further, he has won European competitions with Manchester United and Real Madrid.
Cristiano Ronaldo is nearing the 900-goal mark in his career. With more than 100 international goals, he is a threat in front of the goal. The 39-year-old will lead Portugal in Euro 2024 this summer. Having won the 2016 title, this is his biggest chance of winning another international trophy before possible retirement. Ronaldo will look to create his magic and add a trophy or two to his cabinet.
Credits: Cristiano Ronaldo
