Ronaldo Says He Will Not Retire Until Reaching 1,000 Career Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that he will not retire from professional football until he reaches the milestone of 1,000 career goals, reaffirming his determination to continue playing despite approaching his mid-forties.
The 40-year-old Portugal captain scored twice in Al-Nassr’s 3–0 victory over Al Akhdoud on Saturday, taking his combined total for club and country to 956 goals. Ronaldo joined the Saudi Pro League side in 2022 and signed a new two-year contract last July that extends his playing career beyond his 42nd birthday.
Speaking in Dubai after being named Best Middle East Player at the Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo said his passion for the game remains undiminished.
“It’s hard to continue playing, but I am motivated,” he said. “My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play—whether in the Middle East or Europe—I always enjoy football. I want to win trophies and reach that number you all know: 1,000 goals. I believe I will reach it, if I avoid injuries.”
Ronaldo has scored 13 goals in 14 appearances this season as Al-Nassr sit four points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League. However, despite his prolific form, the club has secured only one trophy—the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023—since his arrival.
Last month, Ronaldo told broadcaster Piers Morgan that he expects to retire “soon,” admitting the decision would be emotional. “I think I will be prepared,” he said. “It will be tough. I will probably cry.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner holds numerous records, including the most goals for Portugal (143) and Real Madrid (450). He is also the only player to have scored more than 100 goals for four different clubs—Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al-Nassr.
Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico will be his final international tournament. He famously captained Portugal to their first major men’s title at Euro 2016 in France.