At 40, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The Portuguese striker has become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifying, a record that adds to an already impressive list of individual accolades. On October 14, during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Hungary, Ronaldo scored two decisive goals in the first half, giving Portugal a 2-1 lead at the break.
These two goals bring his total to 41 World Cup qualifying goals, allowing him to surpass Guatemalan Carlos Ruiz, who previously held the record with 39 goals. Behind him are legends of world football such as Lionel Messi (36 goals), Ali Daei (35), and Robert Lewandowski (33). This new record demonstrates that even after two decades at the highest level, Ronaldo remains an insatiable competitor. Few players in history have displayed such longevity and consistency. At 40, he continues to be a major attacking asset for the Portuguese national team, proving that he is far from finished.
Since his international debut in 2003, Cristiano Ronaldo has rewritten football history on almost every level. He is already the all-time leading scorer in international football, surpassing 125 goals for his national team, a feat never before achieved. His new qualifying record adds to an already impressive list: All-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League (140 goals). Player with the most international appearances (over 210 caps). First player to score in five consecutive World Cup tournaments (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022).
And now, the player with the most goals in World Cup qualifying. In the match against Hungary, Ronaldo once again demonstrated his unique goalscoring instinct. His first goal, a powerful right-footed strike from the edge of the box, allowed Portugal to equalize after Hungary had taken an early lead. The second, an unstoppable header from a Bernardo Silva cross, confirmed Portugal’s dominance. These goals are not merely symbolic: they highlight the Portuguese captain’s ability to deliver in key moments, even against tough opponents.
“I feel honored to continue making history with my country. This record also belongs to the entire team and the fans who have always supported me,” said Ronaldo after the match, visibly moved by this new milestone in his career. Portugal, led by Roberto Martínez, is experiencing a resurgence. The team, already qualified for the next European Championship, boasts an impressive winning streak in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with a prolific attack and a solid defense.
But behind this momentum, Ronaldo’s influence remains ever-present. Even though some thought he would retire from international football after Qatar, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner decided to continue his journey. His role is no longer limited to scoring goals: he has become a true mentor for the new generation, embodied by talents like João Félix, Rafael Leão, and Gonçalo Ramos. “Cristiano continues to be a role model for the entire locker room,” emphasized coach Martínez after the match. “He shows every day what it means to be a professional. At 40, he has the same hunger for victory as he did at 20. He is an inspiration to everyone.”
With this new record, Cristiano Ronaldo proves once again that he is much more than just a player: he is a living legend. His exceptional longevity stems from exemplary discipline and an obsession with improvement. Known for his impeccable lifestyle and intensive training, the Portuguese star has built his career on hard work, rigor, and passion. At 40, he now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he continues to impress with his efficiency and determination. Far from being a pre-retirement phase, this experience has allowed him to remain competitive and maintain a high level of physical fitness.
His statistics speak for themselves: more than 870 official career goals, titles won in four major European leagues (England, Spain, Italy, and Portugal), and a global influence that extends far beyond the world of sports. Ronaldo’s records are not just numbers. They demonstrate unparalleled consistency, a steely resolve, and a unique ability to reinvent himself. From his explosive beginnings at Manchester United to his reign at Real Madrid and his glorious years with the Seleção, Ronaldo has always been synonymous with excellence. Today, he continues to write pages of history that few players will ever have the chance to approach. And if anyone still doubted his place in the pantheon of football, this new qualifying record serves as a stark reminder: Cristiano Ronaldo is, and will remain, one of the greatest of all time.
