Defying age, 40-year-old Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the football world with impressive form. Elated after signing a new two-year contract with Al Nassr, Ronaldo says he is determined to give his best and chase further success ahead.
After months of speculation about his club future, Ronaldo officially renewed his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on Thursday. He will remain with the club until June 2027.
In an interview with Record following the new deal, the veteran forward opened up about his goals:
“My ambition knows no limits. It’s a blend of consistency, dedication, and teamwork that will make us better. That’s why I’m here. We are starting a new chapter!”
Ronaldo’s previous contract with Al Nassr was due to expire at the end of this month. He joined the club in December 2022 on a dazzling $200 million deal after leaving Manchester United, instantly becoming the world’s highest-paid athlete. According to Forbes, Ronaldo has topped the earnings chart among athletes worldwide for the past three years.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s arrival brought global attention to the then ‘obscure’ Saudi Pro League. So far, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances across all competitions for Al Nassr. However, he is yet to lift a major title with the club. He did win the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023, but that is not considered an official tournament.
Al Nassr finished as runners-up in the Saudi Pro League in both the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons but slipped to third place last season following a disappointing campaign—ending 13 points behind champions Al-Ittihad.
On the international stage, Ronaldo recently celebrated his third major trophy with Portugal. The Portuguese defeated Spain in the final to win the UEFA Nations League for the second time.
After lifting the trophy with tears in his eyes, Ronaldo said, “I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning with Portugal.”
Ronaldo’s illustrious career includes numerous trophies with Real Madrid—four Champions League titles among them—and a Champions League win with Manchester United. He is the record scorer in international football and is chasing the milestone of 1,000 career goals, currently standing at 938.
Ahead of the new season with Al Nassr, Ronaldo declined an offer to participate in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup with another club. He will now play under the club’s new coach after veteran Italian Stefano Pioli recently stepped down.
