'I know I'm guilty' - Cristiano Ronaldo claims he's been 'devalued' since setting 'terrible' 1,000-goal target

At 39 years old, Ronaldo has already cemented his place in football history, boasting an astonishing 923 goals across 1,261 matches for club and country. No other player has managed to surpass the 900-goal mark in official competitions, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game. However, the Portuguese superstar believes that his continued excellence is not being appreciated enough as the pressure of achieving the incredible 1000-goal milestone now dominates public discourse.

Speaking to La Sexta, Ronaldo stated: "People are a bit heavy with the 1,000 goals. I know I'm guilty too. But it seems that they are devaluing what I'm doing. For example, this year, I'm scoring goals, a lot of them and nice ones. I'm doing well and people don't value my moment, my goals. They're like: 'I'm missing 85'. I don't like that. Things have to happen naturally. Because even if I score 920, 925 or 930 goals, the best in history is me. Period."

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner insisted that he is not obsessed with the milestone and instead remains focused on the present.

"I score goals, the numbers say so. If the 1,000 goals happen, it would be terrible," he added. "I don't know (if it will happen) but I tell you sincerely. I don't project myself, I think about the present moment. I don't know what will happen tomorrow."

Since making the switch to the Saudi Pro League in December 2022, Ronaldo has continued his prolific form. The Al-Nassr forward has netted 23 goals and contributed four assists in just 25 matches across all competitions this season, proving that he remains a dominant force in front of goal. Beyond his club heroics, Ronaldo has also shattered records on the international stage as he holds the record for the most international goals scored in men’s football, having found the net 135 times in 216 appearances for Portugal.

Ronaldo’s immediate focus will be on Al-Nassr’s upcoming match against Al-Feiha on Friday, as his side continues their pursuit of domestic success in the Saudi Pro League. With his hunger for goals undiminished, the footballing world will be watching to see if he can edge closer to the mythical 1,000-goal mark.