Cristiano Ronaldo contemplated hanging up his boots after the World Cup, yet he has chosen to prolong his illustrious career, believing he can still lead Portugal to new victories and achieve the impressive milestone of 1,000 career goals.
The 41-year-old announced this summer that the 2026 World Cup would mark his final appearance on the world stage, though his future beyond that remains unclear.
Despite the uncertainty, he has been named in Jorge Jesus’ 25-man roster for Portugal’s upcoming Nations League matches, starting with a clash against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday evening.
As he gears up for the match against Craig Bellamy’s team, the Al-Nassr striker has set his sights on the 21 goals needed to hit that coveted 1,000 goals mark.
When asked if he considered stepping back from international football after the World Cup, Ronaldo admitted, Yes, I did.
I’m always reflecting on my decisions, my future, and the present. I’m a thinker, and it’s important to think things through.
Ronaldo, the former star of Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, stated, I spoke with our president and our coach. I still believe I can contribute to the national team’s ambitions.
He emphasized, I can support the national team not just by scoring goals, but also in ways beyond the pitch.
The two-time Nations League champion with Portugal expressed his desire to secure a third title, aligning it with his personal aspiration of reaching 1,000 goals.
Both goals are significant, he remarked. Yes, 1,000 goals and the national team. The Nations League kicks off tomorrow [Thursday], marking a new chapter.
Portugal v Wales (Nations League Group A4, Thursday, 24 September, 19:45 BST, Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon)
Portugal’s squad for the current international window boasts a host of promising young talents such as Fabio Silva, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, and Francisco Conceição.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who humorously suggested he could play for another decade, highlighted his desire to mentor the next generation as a key reason for his continued commitment to the national team.
This is a fresh young generation, he stated. Ultimately, my main goal is to be on the field, scoring goals and aiding the team’s victories.
Ronaldo emphasized, I understand my worth and the effort I put in to achieve the success I have.
He added, Young fans admire me because they see me as a role model, and I plan to maintain that influence, even post-retirement… in ten years!
I’m satisfied with who I am. Whether I play tomorrow or take a break in the next match, my priority is my well-being, he concluded, as he eyes his remarkable milestone of 1000 goals.
Dodging ‘shotgun’ fire
During a press conference in Lisbon, manager Jesus referred to Ronaldo as a symbol of Portugal and the national team. This statement followed the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s response to the criticism he has endured throughout his illustrious career, particularly during his tenures at top clubs in England, Spain, and Italy.
Portugal is perhaps where I have felt the most cherished, Ronaldo expressed. The fans make me feel that the Portuguese people support me.
He acknowledged the media’s tendency to critique him, saying, Some TV channels seem intent on disparaging me, as if they’ve aimed a shotgun at me, but I can rise above it.
Ronaldo concluded, Regardless, I’ve grown accustomed to it. For over 20 years, I’ve faced this, but my heart is with those who truly appreciate me. As he approaches the milestone of 1000 career goals, his legacy continues to resonate with fans.
Source: Ian Mitchelmore – BBC Sport Wales
Cristiano Ronaldo remarkable milestone of 1,000 goals will undoubtedly solidify his iconic legacy in Portuguese football for all time.