'No retirement without scoring a thousand goals', Ronaldo's makes a big announcement, after scoring 956 goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has reaffirmed his ambition to reach an unprecedented 1,000 career goals before bringing the curtain down on his illustrious playing career. The Portuguese icon took another decisive step toward that landmark on Saturday, scoring twice for Al-Nassr in their Saudi Pro League clash against Al Akhdoud.

The brace lifted Ronaldo’s career tally to 956 goals, leaving him just 44 short of the four-figure mark—an achievement widely considered unattainable in the modern game.

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, where he was honoured as the Best Player in the Middle East, the 40-year-old expressed confidence about reaching the milestone. “I will definitely reach that number if I don’t get injured,” Ronaldo said, underlining his belief that fitness remains the key variable at this stage of his career.

Unmatched international legacy

Ronaldo’s extraordinary goal record includes 143 goals for Portugal, the most by any player in men’s international football. He is expected to lead his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where he will be 41.

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Despite his age, Ronaldo insists his motivation remains unchanged. “I am still very motivated to play. It doesn’t matter where I play—whether in the Middle East or Europe. I love football, I want to win trophies, score goals, and continue competing,” he said.

The final leg

While the World Cup title has eluded him, Ronaldo did guide Portugal to European Championship glory in 2016, a defining moment in his international career. Yet, personal and collective ambitions continue to drive him. “You know what my goal is. I want to win more trophies and reach that number, something everyone will remember,” he added.

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In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo acknowledged that retirement is approaching, admitting it would be an emotional decision. However, as his latest performance shows, the final chapter of his career remains firmly focused on history—one goal at a time.