Cristiano Ronaldo created a firestorm on social media earlier in the week as he scored his 900th career goal, a milestone no player in history has reached before.
When being asked about the new landmark, Ronaldo spoke about the idea of playing in the 2026 World Cup and if he's motivated to play in one last World Cup.
"Portugal winning Euros is equivalent to winning a World Cup," Ronaldo said. "I've already won two trophies for Portugal that I really wanted. I'm not motivated by that. I'm motivated by enjoying football and the records come naturally."
Ronaldo and Portugal won Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. The World Cup is the one major trophy that evaded Ronaldo in his career.
Cristiano Ronaldo Euro World Cup comparison
Cristiano Ronaldo: "Portugal winning a EURO's is equivalent to a World Cup. I've already won two trophies for Portugal that I really wanted."
"I'm not motivated by that. I'm motivated to enjoy football and records appear in a natural way. I don't beat records, they're the… pic.twitter.com/UbNKVa6sTg— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) September 5, 2024
Ronaldo’s 900th career goal came during Portugal’s 2-1 victory vs. Croatia in Lisbon as the 39-year-old struck from close range in the first half.
Cristiano Ronaldo vs Croatia 2024 (900 GOALS)pic.twitter.com/yasYeQDpub
— Huz (@huzcw7l) September 5, 2024
CR7 will be glad to be back to his scoring ways after a disappointing Euro 2024 that saw him finish the tournament with zero goals and a failed penalty kick.
If Ronaldo doesn’t play in the 2026 World Cup, then this season’s UEFA Nations League will be his final chance to win an international trophy. Portugal are in a group with Croatia, Poland and Scotland with the top two advancing to the quarterfinals.
The final will be played on June 8, 2025.
