Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he “no longer cares” about being the best player in the world, and is now focused on supporting his teammates.
The 39-year-old forward joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr in January 2023 after parting ways with Manchester United.
On Monday, the former Real Madrid and Juventus star scored during Al-Nassr’s 2-1 victory over Qatari side Al-Rayyan in the AFC Champions League group stage.
“It is not important anymore whether I am the best or not, I no longer care about that,” the Portugal captain said after the match.
“It is good for a player to score goals, but for me it is better for the team to win.
“I am used to breaking records and I no longer look for them. The most important thing for me now is to enjoy and help Al-Nassr and my team-mates to win.”
The attacker has won the Ballon d’Or on five occasions but has not been shortlisted for the 2024 award.
After scoring the 904th goal of his career, Ronaldo pointed to the sky rather than performing his usual goal celebration.
“My goal against Al-Rayyan was different and important because my father would have been happy with it if he was alive, as today [Monday] is his birthday,” he said.
In August, Ronaldo mentioned that he will likely conclude his career with Al-Nassr.
“I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al-Nassr,” he said.
Ronaldo played a key role in helping Al-Nassr win the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023, though he has yet to secure a domestic league title or continental trophy with the team.
In May, he set a new record by becoming the top scorer in a single Saudi Pro League season with 35 goals.
Additionally, the Portugal captain reached a career milestone by scoring his 901st goal during a 2-1 victory over Scotland in the Nations League last month.