\\\"Only I, and those close to me, understand the challenges of working daily to maintain physical and mental well-being to reach goal number 900,\\\" Ronaldo said after his first goal since June, which also extended his record international tally to 131 goals. \\\"This milestone is incredibly special and emotionally significant. It was a number I aspired to reach for a long time, and I knew it would come naturally as I continued to play.\\\"
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\\\"The football legend, who now plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, shared his excitement on social media, expressing that he had \\\"more dreams\\\" to pursue. With his 40th birthday approaching in February, Ronaldo has not ruled out the possibility of participating in the 2026 World Cup.
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Portugal teammate Bruno Fernandes remarked on Ronaldo's decision to continue playing, saying, \\\"It’s his choice and depends on how he feels and his level of performance. We know he is capable of maintaining a high level of play at his age, but it’s up to him to decide, and I’m confident he will choose what’s best for his well-being and the national team.\\\"
\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\nCristiano Ronaldo collapsed to the ground after scoring for the 900th time (Armando Franca/AP)\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\n\\r\\n
Ronaldo’s goal had initially put Portugal 2-0 up, following an opener by Diogo Dalot. However, Dalot's own goal in the first half made for a tense second half. Despite the scare, Portugal secured the win and began their Nations League campaign with three points.
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Portugal FA chief Fernando Gomes praised Ronaldo’s achievement, stating, \\\"Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another historic milestone, not just in his career but in Portuguese and world football. It’s a memorable moment, especially because it was achieved while serving the national team. Cristiano embodies commitment, professionalism, and a deep passion for the game. His joy is shared by all his teammates who have supported him in reaching this landmark. What we saw on Wednesday will be a cherished memory for all of us. Congratulations, Cristiano.\\\"
The 39-year-old reached the remarkable tally after netting in Portugal’s win over Croatia.
Cristiano Ronaldo, visibly moved, described his 900th career goal as a "unique milestone" after achieving it during Portugal's 2-1 UEFA Nations League victory over Croatia in Lisbon. The 39-year-old forward, who has previously played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, scored in the 34th minute by converting a cross from Nuno Mendes. Overwhelmed by the moment, Ronaldo collapsed to the ground in tears.
"Only I, and those close to me, understand the challenges of working daily to maintain physical and mental well-being to reach goal number 900," Ronaldo said after his first goal since June, which also extended his record international tally to 131 goals. "This milestone is incredibly special and emotionally significant. It was a number I aspired to reach for a long time, and I knew it would come naturally as I continued to play."
"The football legend, who now plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, shared his excitement on social media, expressing that he had "more dreams" to pursue. With his 40th birthday approaching in February, Ronaldo has not ruled out the possibility of participating in the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal teammate Bruno Fernandes remarked on Ronaldo's decision to continue playing, saying, "It’s his choice and depends on how he feels and his level of performance. We know he is capable of maintaining a high level of play at his age, but it’s up to him to decide, and I’m confident he will choose what’s best for his well-being and the national team."
Cristiano Ronaldo collapsed to the ground after scoring for the 900th time (Armando Franca/AP)
Ronaldo’s goal had initially put Portugal 2-0 up, following an opener by Diogo Dalot. However, Dalot's own goal in the first half made for a tense second half. Despite the scare, Portugal secured the win and began their Nations League campaign with three points.
Portugal FA chief Fernando Gomes praised Ronaldo’s achievement, stating, "Cristiano Ronaldo has reached another historic milestone, not just in his career but in Portuguese and world football. It’s a memorable moment, especially because it was achieved while serving the national team. Cristiano embodies commitment, professionalism, and a deep passion for the game. His joy is shared by all his teammates who have supported him in reaching this landmark. What we saw on Wednesday will be a cherished memory for all of us. Congratulations, Cristiano."
![\\\"Cristiano](\\\"//content.assets.pressassociation.io/AP/2024/09/05/c17f090dc224412daac4dd1bbe918986.jpg?w=640\\\")
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