NEW DELHI: Cristiano Ronaldo nears his 40th birthday, maintaining the same level of confidence and self-assurance that has characterised his illustrious career.
Currently playing in Saudi Arabia after his stint at Real Madrid, Ronaldo will celebrate his 40th birthday on Wednesday, remaining steadfast in his conviction about his position as football’s finest player.
“I am the greatest scorer in history,” Ronaldo said in an interview with Spanish television channel La Sexta.
“Although I am not left-footed, I am in the top 10 in history for goals scored with the left foot. These are numbers, I am the most complete player who has ever existed.
“I play well with my head, I take good free kicks, I am fast, I am strong, I jump… I have never seen anyone better than me.”
The Portuguese international holds significant records in men’s football, including the highest number of international appearances at 217 and goals at 135.
He has consistently expressed this sentiment previously, stating multiple times that he believes he will be remembered as football’s greatest player. When questioned about the comparison between himself and Lionel Messi, he has always acknowledged the Argentine’s abilities whilst ultimately favouring himself.
His recent statements have generated various responses within the football community.
“I have a lot of respect for Cristiano and I don’t have to analyze his opinions. It’s what he thinks. I have my own thoughts and it isn’t that,” said Javier Mascherano, who previously played alongside Messi and now coaches him at Inter Miami.