Ronaldo received the Prestigio (Honorary) Award at the Portugal Football Awards ceremony on the evening of 7/10. He does not view this award as a sign of his career's end.

"I do not see this as a final award, but rather a recognition of many years of effort, dedication, and ambition," Ronaldo stated. "I enjoy winning, I enjoy helping the younger generation, and they also help me maintain my form and continue to compete. That feeling is wonderful."

Cristiano Ronaldo receives the Prestigio (Honorary) Award at the Portugal Football Awards on 7/10. Photo: FPF

Ronaldo has scored 946 goals in his career: 5 for Sporting Lisbon, 145 for Man Utd, 450 for Real Madrid, 101 for Juventus, 104 for Al Nassr, and 141 for the Portugal national team. He previously stated his goal to be the first player to reach the 1,000-goal milestone.

At the national team level, Ronaldo has scored 141 goals in 223 matches, both records for Portugal. He played a significant role in helping Portugal win three titles: Euro 2016, UEFA Nations League 2019, and 2025.

Ronaldo revealed that his family has repeatedly advised him to rest after over two decades of top-level play. "My family tells me: 'It's time, you've done it all, why do you still want to score 1,000 goals?' But I don't think that way," the Al Nassr forward emphasized. "I'm still playing well, still contributing to my club and national team, so why stop? Once I retire, I will do so peacefully, because I know I will have given my all. I understand I don't have many years left, but as long as I can, I will enjoy every moment."

Ronaldo admitted that his perspective on football and life has changed over time. "If it were 20 years ago, I would say I wanted to 'conquer the world.' Now, it's not like that anymore," the 40-year-old striker expressed. "I live for the present, because everything passes quickly. I no longer make long-term plans; I only think short-term, because that makes life more interesting. I try to enjoy every day, every training session, every match. As for the rest, let the future decide."

Portugal currently leads Group F of the World Cup 2026 European qualifiers with 6 points. They are followed by Armenia (3 points), Hungary, and Ireland, both with 1 point. During this training camp, Portugal will play at home against Ireland on 11/10 and Hungary on 15/10.

"We must focus on the present, one match at a time," Ronaldo said. "Of course, the goal is to qualify for and win the World Cup, but we must take it step by step. Now it's about the next two matches, and as coach Roberto Martinez said, we need to enjoy the moment. When playing at home, we are very strong."

The 40-year-old forward stated that his pride in wearing the national team jersey remains intact. He said: "For me, it is always a source of pride. Regardless of the outcome, Portuguese fans always stand by us. I believe the team will play well and secure qualification for the World Cup."