Cristiano Ronaldo’s Relentless Pursuit of Greatness: The 39-Year-Old Star Eyes 1,000 Career Goals Amid Continued International Ambition

Cristiano Ronaldo’s longevity in international football remains a story of resilience and ambition. As Portugal’s most iconic player, the 39-year-old is not ready to step away from the global stage. Despite criticism, especially after Portugal’s quarter-finals exit from Euro 2024, Ronaldo continues to push forward, making his presence felt both on and off the field.

In early September, Ronaldo greeted Sporting’s rising star, 17-year-old Geovany Quenda, with a warm welcome at the national camp. For the new generation of players like Quenda, Ronaldo has been an icon long before they even began their careers, showcasing his enduring influence.

After featuring prominently in the summer’s Euros and being Portugal’s most-used player, Ronaldo is determined to continue. The star forward, who remains pivotal in coach Roberto Martinez’s plans, has already started Portugal’s Nations League campaign with two goals in two games. Ronaldo is also in pursuit of an ambitious milestone—reaching 1,000 career goals, adding further drive to his relentless career.

Ronaldo’s standing as a football legend is unquestionable, but recent debates about his role in the national team have surfaced. Despite his iconic status, a portion of fans feels it’s time for the national team to evolve beyond him, with a recent poll showing 74% of fans favoring his exit from the team. But within Portugal’s camp, Ronaldo’s influence is still profound. His desire to remain a starter, as he expressed during a press conference, signifies his unwavering belief in his own abilities.

The conversation around Ronaldo also highlights his broader impact on the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). His brand and presence continue to boost the FPF’s financial success, with record revenue reported for the 12th consecutive year. While some critics argue that his quest for individual milestones may affect the team’s dynamic, Ronaldo’s role, both as a player and as a brand, remains deeply intertwined with Portuguese football.

Though his performances in recent tournaments have drawn scrutiny, particularly for his goal drought in finals matches, Ronaldo’s contribution to Portugal extends beyond just goals. His presence brings unmatched attention and financial gain to the federation, making him an indispensable figure not only for his footballing prowess but for his commercial value.

As Ronaldo inches closer to his goal milestone, his future in international football remains a focal point of discussion. However, he has made it clear that when the time comes to step down, it will be a spontaneous decision, not driven by public pressure but by his own internal clock. Until then, the world watches as Ronaldo continues to chase greatness, with eyes set on the 2026 World Cup and beyond.