Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo was honored by UEFA as the all-time top scorer in the Champions League.
At a ceremony held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, Star footballer receives the the all-time top scorer Award in the Champions League.
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UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin presented the award to Ronaldo, highlighting his contribution to the most prestigious club tournament in world football
After receiving the award, Ronaldo said: “The first win with Manchester United was very special. Winning four times with Real Madrid was also incredible.
“In 2018, in Lisbon, I felt the pressure of being the most expensive player in the world and needing to win the Champions League. But I think goals and trophies are like ketchup; once they start coming, they keep coming.”
Taking to his Instagram after the event, the five-time Ballon d’Or award winner shared a snap from the event in a post.
In the caption, he wrote: “Honored to receive this award from @championsleague for being the all-time top scorer of the competition. Grateful for all the support along the way! Thank you!”
Cristiano Ronaldo reached the milestone of 140 goals over more than 18 years in the Champions League, playing for Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His record includes seven seasons as the competition’s top scorer, surpassing Lionel Messi by 11 goals and Robert Lewandowski by 46 goals on the all-time scoring list.
Ronaldo is also the only player to have scored in three different Champions League finals (2008, 2014, and 2017) and holds the record for most goals in a single season, with 17 goals in the 2013/14 campaign. Additionally, Ronaldo has the longest scoring streak, having scored in 11 consecutive matches from June 2017 to April 2018, and he has eight “hat-tricks” in his history.
UEFA President praised Ronaldo during the ceremony, stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars of the UEFA Champions League.” He noted that Ronaldo’s achievements “seem destined to withstand the test of time” and added that Ronaldo’s sustained excellence “is a testament to his relentless pursuit of individual and team titles.”
In an emotional moment during the ceremony, Ronaldo expressed his satisfaction with the recognition and shared his enthusiasm for the tournament, suggesting that he might return to play in the Champions League in the future. His legacy in European football continues to be a source of inspiration for future generations of players.
