Cristiano Ronaldo will receive a special award from UEFA to recognize him as the all-time leading goalscorer in the Champions League.
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UEFA to honor Ronaldo with a special award
Ronaldo, a five-time Champions League winner, will be given the gong in this season’s Champions League 36-team phase draw ceremony on August 29 in Monaco.
The Portugal international netted 140 times in 183 Champions League appearances for Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus across 18 seasons.
In addition, the 39-year-old is 11 goals clear of his rival Lionel Messi at the top of the scoring charts.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation,” said UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin.
“His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass.”
“His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours. Over more than two decades, he has continuously evolved and refined his game while preserving a youthful passion for scoring and celebrating goals.”
“His professionalism, work ethic, dedication, and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate.”
A star was born in Champions League
Ronaldo won his first Champions League crown in 2008 with Manchester United, registering eight goals in the tournament.
He added four more Champions League crowns during his time with Real Madrid.
The Al-Nassr forward is the first five-time winner in the competition’s history since 1992.
Ronaldo has also finished as the leading scorer in seven separate Champions League seasons.