Cristiano Ronaldo was honored with a special award by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. The ceremony took place on August 29, 2024, during the UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. This award highlights Ronaldo’s extraordinary legacy in Europe’s premier club competition.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Champions League Career
Ronaldo has an impressive record in the Champions League, scoring 140 goals in 183 appearances. His goal tally surpasses that of his closest rival, Lionel Messi, by 11 goals, and he is 46 goals ahead of Robert Lewandowski, who ranks third.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. “His extraordinary goalscoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass.”
Unmatched Achievements and Honors
Ronaldo’s career in the Champions League is filled with remarkable achievements. He has finished as the top scorer in seven different seasons, an unmatched feat. His scoring range varies from eight goals during Manchester United’s 2007/08 campaign to 15 goals in Real Madrid’s 2017/18 title-winning run.
Additionally, Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in a single Champions League season, with 17 goals during the 2013/14 season. He also became the first player to win the competition five times since its rebranding in 1992, claiming the title once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid.
Ronaldo’s Lasting Legacy
Ronaldo’s longevity and consistency at the highest level are a testament to his professionalism, work ethic, and dedication. He is the only player to have scored in three different Champions League finals and has the longest scoring streak in the competition, finding the net in 11 successive matches from June 2017 to April 2018.
Beyond his Champions League success, Ronaldo has received multiple Ballon d’Or and UEFA Men’s Player of the Year awards. He is also the all-time leading scorer in all UEFA club competitions, with 145 goals in 197 appearances. Additionally, he is the most prolific scorer in men’s international football, with 130 goals in 212 appearances.
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