Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he was "proud" of his efforts after beating Manchester City "animal" Erling Haaland in the 2023 goalscoring charts.
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- Ronaldo talks about beating Haaland
- Ended as top scorer in 2023
- Jokes about potential retirement
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The soon-to-be 39-year-old made a number of sensational comments earlier on Friday while in a conversation at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also mentioned his pride in beating the Manchester City striker for goals scored in 2023 – across club and country – at the ripe old age of 38.
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WHAT RONALDO SAID
Talking at the Awards ceremony, he said (via Fabrizio Romano): "I was the best goalscorer this season, imagine beating young animals like Haaland… I’m proud. And I’ll be 39 soon! I like when people doubt again about me and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism."
Ronaldo also discussed his potential retirement, adding: "The moment I feel I’m done, I'll retire… maybe in 10 years?!"
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
The Portuguese legend made a move to Saudi Arabia after a poor second spell at Manchester United under Erik Ten Hag. He struggled during his first season with Al-Nassr but came into his own in the 2023/24 season as he sits as the top scorer of the league with 20 goals to his name.
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WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
The accomplished player is currently enjoying a break as the Saudi Pro League pauses due to the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar. He will return to training soon and will be in action on January 24 when Shanghai Shenhua host Al-Nassr in a friendly.