At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo isn't slowing down. He continues to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency, both for his club and, astonishingly, for the Portuguese national team. The question isn't *if* he'll keep playing, but *for how long* – and how many more goals will fall before he finally hangs up his boots.
Ronaldo has set an audacious target: 1,000 career goals. It’s a milestone that speaks to a relentless ambition, a dedication that has defined his legendary career. He’s already a record-breaker, holding the title for most international goals with an astounding 143 for Portugal, eight of which came in the last year alone.
The drive remains intensely personal. “It’s hard to continue playing, but I am motivated,” he recently stated. “My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play… I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going.” This isn’t about location; it’s about the pure, unadulterated love of the game.
Currently, Ronaldo’s career tally stands at an incredible 956 goals – a testament to over two decades of dominance. Just 44 more goals separate him from the millennium mark, a target that feels remarkably within reach, potentially within the next year or two.
His move to the Saudi Pro League hasn’t diminished his scoring prowess. In 87 appearances, he’s netted 86 goals, adding another 26 in other competitions for a total of 112 goals in 125 appearances for his current club. He’s proving that age is, truly, just a number.
The upcoming World Cup offers another stage to add to his legacy, and potentially close the gap on his ultimate goal. While 2026 is a possibility, many believe 2027 is the more realistic timeframe for witnessing this historic achievement.
The pursuit of 1,000 goals places Ronaldo firmly at the top of the all-time scoring charts. His long-time rival, Lionel Messi, trails with 896, a significant distance behind. While some debate Pelé’s total, citing numerous goals in friendly matches, official records place the Brazilian legend in third with 762.
Ronaldo’s ambition isn’t simply about numbers; it’s about continuing to win, to compete, and to inspire. He’s not content with past glories. He’s driven by a future where he stands alone, the first player to reach the unprecedented milestone of 1,000 career goals.
