The Best FIFA Awards: Portuguese legend expressed his delight

After becoming the highest scorer in international football, the governing body awarded the Portuguese legend. On Monday night, Cristiano Ronaldo had two reasons to rejoice after receiving two awards at the FIFA Best FIFA gala. The trophy was presented to the Portugal great in honour of his achievement of being the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football. In September, Ronaldo scored his 110th goal for his country, breaking the mark established by former Iran great Ali Daei. Since then, he has added another 115 to his score.

During his impressive career, Ronaldo has scored over 800 goals, with 115 of them coming for Portugal. After making his comeback to Old Trafford, the 36-year-old has shown he still has plenty left in the tank for Manchester United this season, netting 14 goals in 21 games. Ronaldo spent the first half of this year with Juventus, and FIFA has now given him even more credit. Indeed, he is one of five Premier League players nominated to the FIFPRO Men’s World11 for 2021, and the Portuguese superstar was also honored by the governing body with a special accomplishment award. This was because he set a new senior men’s international goals record this year. With a double against the Republic of Ireland in September, he broke the previous record.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ronaldo said: “It is a dream. First of all, I have to say thank you to my team-mates in the national team in the last 20 years that I used to play with. The record was 109, right? So six ahead. I am so proud. It is a special award from FIFA — an organization I respect a lot. I also have to thank my family. Soon I will be a father again. I am proud. It is great to be the goal scorer of all-time.”

Ronaldo hopes to keep playing for five more years: 

“I still have the passion for the game and to score goals. I play football since I was five years old. When I go to the pitch, even in training, my motivation is still there. Even 37 soon, I feel good. I keep working hard. I love the game and have the passion. I want to continue. I hope to play maybe four or five years, it is all mental. If you treat your body good, when you need it, then it will give back,” Ronaldo added.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will turn 37 in less than three weeks, on February 5.