Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be 39 in two weeks, expressed his pride at being able to outscore Erling Haaland in terms of goals scored last year.
Portuguese superstar Ronaldo, a perpetual defy of odds and age, completed 2023 as the world’s highest striker for club and country, with 54 goals, surpassing Harry Kane (52), Kylian Mbappe (52) and Erling Haaland (50).
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has always proven detractors wrong by setting objectives and reaching milestones. And he was delighted to have done it again, even if it was nearing the end of his career.
Records continue to follow the GOAT!
Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the Middle East. 2023
Maradona Award Top Scorer Winner 2023 Photo.Twitter.com/GQZK0dw9LH; AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN). January 19, 2024.
“I appreciate it when people mistrust me. “And I proved [them wrong] once more with another successful year,” Ronaldo stated at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday.
Ronaldo referred to a tumultuous period in 2022 — a year in which Portugal crashed out of the World Cup in the quarterfinals after a shock defeat against surprise package Morocco after Ronaldo’s reunion with Manchester United turned sour, eventually forcing him out of Europe — as he mentioned that he found his footing once again in his career at Al Nassr of the Saudi Pro League.
“I had a terrible trip last year (2022), but I’m happy it occurred because it made me stronger.
Cristiano Ronaldo won three Globe Soccer Awards.Twitter.com/ZXzlqKfZbV; AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN). January 19, 2024.
“As you can see, I had a wonderful season this year. I was the top goalscorer. Imagine hitting creatures, such as young lions like Haaland, with goals. So, I’m proud. I’ll be 39 shortly, and I’m still looking terrific. So, I’m proud,” he said.
When asked about his retirement intentions, Ronaldo joked that he still wanted to play for another ten years.
“At the time, when will I finish? I’m not sure, to be honest. But, of course, it will happen shortly. By “soon,” I mean within 10 years.No, I’m kidding,” Ronaldo said.