Cristiano Ronaldo affirms his commitment to being an exemplary team player at Saudi club Al Nassr, rather than pursuing additional individual honors in the later stages of his career. The 39-year-old, a five-time recipient of the Ballon d'Or, scored in Al Nassr's 2-1 victory over Qatar's Al Rayyan in their AFC Champions League Group B match on Monday. This triumph marked the club's fourth consecutive win across all competitions under new coach Stefano Pioli, who succeeded Luis Castro last month.
"It was a robust and challenging match, typical of the AFC Champions League, but the key point is that we generated numerous opportunities and defended effectively to thwart the opponent from creating straightforward chances," Ronaldo stated during a press conference. "It no longer matters to me whether I am deemed the best or not; I am indifferent to that. While it is beneficial for a player to score goals, my priority is for the team to emerge victorious."
"I am accustomed to breaking records and no longer seek them out. What is most significant to me now is to relish the game and assist Al Nassr and my teammates in securing wins." Ronaldo secured the title of top scorer in a single season in the Saudi Pro League last May with 35 goals. The Portugal captain also netted his 901st career goal in a 2-1 win against Scotland in the Nations League last month.
"My goal against Al Rayyan held a distinct and crucial significance as my father would have been delighted with it had he been alive, considering today (yesterday) marks his birthday," the former Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United forward added.
