Cristiano Ronaldo at 40: Redefining the Boundaries of Football Excellence

Cristiano Ronaldo at 40: Redefining the Boundaries of Football Excellence

What can one achieve at the age of 40? For many, this milestone is often accompanied by societal suggestions to “take it easy.” However, for Cristiano Ronaldo, it marks yet another phase in his remarkable journey—a testament to the fact that even time struggles to match the pace of true greatness.

While the world may assert that “life begins to slow down at forty,” Ronaldo counters with an impressive tally of goals, shattered records, and an insatiable drive that defies conventional wisdom. He is not merely participating; he is excelling.

Surpassing Time Itself

Consider this astonishing statistic: Ronaldo netted 463 goals before reaching the age of 30. Since then, he has added 470 more to his tally—indeed, he has scored more goals after turning 30 than he did before. While most athletes peak prior to their thirtieth birthday, Ronaldo has redefined this expectation with the artistry of a poet and the strength of a warrior.

His performance has not diminished with age; rather, it has transformed. As others may decline, Ronaldo hones his skills. At 40, he continues to be the leading scorer for every team he represents: Al Nassr, the national team of Portugal, and throughout the Saudi Pro League.

The Man of the Hour, Once More  

Just two nights ago, during the Saudi Pro League match against Al Riyadh, Ronaldo netted both goals in a 2–1 triumph for Al Nassr. One of these goals—a remarkable volley—has already ignited discussions regarding its candidacy for the esteemed Puskás Award.  

In that instance, he was not merely responding; he was anticipating. After sending a pass to the left wing, Ronaldo positioned himself strategically, interpreting the game as if it were a familiar narrative. As Sadio Mané delivered a cross and the defender cleared it, the ball descended perfectly to Ronaldo, who executed a mid-air strike that was both precise and unstoppable, finding the back of the net. The commentator struggled to contain his excitement:  

“Ronaldo! What a moment! Absolutely unstoppable!”  

Dominating the Season  

Cristiano is not merely contributing; he is leading his teams. Throughout all competitions this season, he has amassed 32 goals in 35 matches, maintaining a streak of scoring in 6 consecutive games. Additionally, he has provided 4 assists. No other player at Al Nassr comes close to his performance. Sadio Mané, the next highest scorer, has only 9 goals in 39 matches.  

In the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo leads the scoring leaderboard with 23 goals in 26 games, surpassing Al Shabab's Abderrazak Hamdallah, who has 20 goals in 22 matches. Last season, he was also the top scorer.  

In the AFC Champions League Elite, he currently ranks third with 7 goals in 6 matches, trailing only Jasir Asani and Anderson Lopes, who each have 9. However, with more matches remaining, it remains to be seen if Ronaldo will ascend to the top of that leaderboard as well.  

Leading His Nation, Still  

Ronaldo's statistics for Portugal are equally impressive. Since the conclusion of Euro 2024 last July, he has emerged as the national team’s leading scorer for the 2024–25 season with 6 goals. His closest rivals, Bruno Fernandes and Trincao, have managed only 2 goals each. In the UEFA Nations League, he is also among the top scorers, with 6 goals in 7 matches, trailing only Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres.

Beyond a Legend  

Cristiano Ronaldo's narrative at the age of 40 extends beyond merely setting records. It encompasses surpassing expectations, defying the limits of biology, and reimagining what it means to achieve greatness. He is not just participating in football; he is demonstrating the potential that arises when unwavering discipline converges with intense passion.  

For those who think that aspirations fade with time, Ronaldo stands as a vibrant counterargument. At 40, he continues to craft history—one goal, one record, and one stunning volley at a time.