Al Nassr’s forward Cristiano Ronaldo has emphatically responded to suggestions that he is approaching the end of his illustrious playing career.
Following his team’s thrilling 4-3 victory over rivals Al-Ahli, in which Ronaldo scored twice and Brazilian midfielder Anderson Talisca netted the other two goals for Al Nassr, the 38-year-old made his feelings clear.
Ronaldo firmly refuted the rumors and opinions circulating in the media regarding the twilight of his career, emphasizing his commitment to the sport despite his move away from European football. He declared, “They say Ronaldo is done… but it’s not true. I will continue to play until my legs say: Cristiano, I’m done.”
The Portuguese all-time leading scorer went on to say, “I still have a lot. I still love football and scoring goals. I still love winning. They say I’m done but I’m still proving that it’s not true.”
His recent performances support his statements, as Ronaldo has delivered an astounding nine goals and six assists in just six Saudi Pro League matches, finding the net in all but one of them.
One of his goals in the game against Al-Ahli was particularly unusual, as the opposition’s goalkeeper appeared to be obstructed by pyrotechnic smoke, allowing Ronaldo to slot the ball into the net through the haze, giving his team a 1-0 lead.
Despite a later missed opportunity, where he hit the post from close range with an open goal, Ronaldo managed to complete his brace with a trademark finish. This performance highlighted that he still possesses his signature magic, even as he continues to age, and reaffirmed his ability to produce brilliance when his team requires it.
The outcome of the match has positioned Al Nassr in fifth place in the table, just three points behind the top spot.