Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his gratitude after being recognized as the “all-time leading goalscorer” in the UEFA Champions League on Thursday. His outstanding achievements in Europe’s premier club competition, which span over 18 years, were honored during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League event at Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum.
The 39-year-old Al Nassr star reflected on his illustrious career, stating, “Winning the first Champions League with Manchester United was unforgettable, and claiming the title four times with Real Madrid was incredible as well. In 2018, I felt the pressure of being the world’s most expensive player and the need to win the Champions League. But I believe goals and trophies are like ketchup; once they start coming, they keep coming.”
After the ceremony, Ronaldo took to Instagram to share a photo from the event, writing, “Honored to receive this award from @championsleague for being the all-time top scorer of the competition. Grateful for all the support along the way! Thank you!”
Ronaldo has left an indelible mark on European football, scoring 140 goals in 183 matches while representing Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He has won the prestigious title five times, second only to a few players, with four victories coming with Real Madrid (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018) and one with Manchester United (2008). Remarkably, he is the only player to score in three different finals: 2008 against Chelsea, 2014 against Atletico Madrid, and 2017 against Juventus.
Additionally, Ronaldo has finished as the top scorer in the Champions League in seven different seasons and holds the record for the most goals scored in a single season, with 17 goals during Real Madrid’s triumphant 2013/14 campaign.
He also set the record for the longest consecutive scoring streak in the Champions League, netting in 11 straight matches from June 2017 to April 2018. Furthermore, Ronaldo has achieved an impressive eight Champions League hat-tricks.
Beyond the Champions League, Ronaldo is also the all-time leading scorer in all UEFA club competitions, with 145 goals in 197 appearances, and holds the record as the most prolific player in men’s international football, with 130 goals in 212 appearances.
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