Cristiano Ronaldo sets 1,000-Goal target, shifts focus away from long-term plans: "I’m Already the Player With..."

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football legend currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, recently shared his ambitious goal to reach 1,000 career goals. However, he has also adopted a more relaxed outlook, stating that while reaching 1,000 would be a dream, he won’t let the target become an overwhelming expectation. At this stage of his career, Ronaldo prefers to “live in the moment,” focusing on enjoying each game rather than being weighed down by long-term goals.

At a gala hosted by the Portuguese Football Federation (PFF), Ronaldo was honored with the prestigious Platinum Quinas award for his incredible achievements, which included setting records that may never be matched. Currently, he’s the only player to have scored over 900 goals in professional football, an extraordinary feat that separates him from his rivals. At the event, Ronaldo was presented with the award by Fernando Gomes, the PFF president. In his acceptance speech, he discussed his journey, reflecting on his ambition, the reality of his age, and how he balances it all.

Ronaldo also addressed his current performance in the Saudi Pro League, where he has made an impressive impact since his arrival in 2022. Though his move was initially met with mixed reactions, Ronaldo quickly proved his enduring skill by breaking multiple records and becoming the league’s top goal-scorer. Even though he has not yet won a title with Al Nassr, his influence in Saudi football is undeniable. Despite a slower start this season, Ronaldo has already scored six goals and continues to lead his team in crucial matches.

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Enjoying the Game without long-term pressure

Ronaldo’s words reveal a new approach: focusing on each game and how he feels physically rather than setting strict goals. “I can’t think long term anymore,” he admitted. Having recently crossed the 900-goal milestone, he views each match as a chance to assess his physical response to the sport he’s been dedicated to for decades. If he reaches the 1,000-goal mark, it will be a bonus; if not, he remains proud of holding the title of football’s all-time highest scorer.

This new outlook is refreshing for the athlete who, at 38, is conscious of the intense demands professional football places on his body. While his rivals, including Lionel Messi, continue to pursue high numbers, Ronaldo’s record of over 900 goals keeps him ahead in this historic race. And in a recent match, Ronaldo helped Al Nassr secure a dominant 5-1 win against Al Ain in the AFC Champions League, highlighting his enduring impact on the field. 

In an era of high expectations and achievements, Ronaldo is a player who has chosen to value each moment and focus on personal satisfaction rather than external pressures. He knows he has already achieved an incredible legacy, with or without reaching that 1,000-goal target.