Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 38, is running on all cylinders. Months after Lionel Messi lifted the Ballon d’Or, his arch-rival made strides by winning Globe Soccer’s Maradona Award for his goal-scoring abilities for the 2023 calendar year. While fans continue to hail the face of Al Nassr for his achievement, CR7 fervently asserted that the show isn’t over as he still has ‘a lot of potential‘. With a remarkable tally of 54, he topped off 2023 with the prestigious individual accolade even though he was visibly ‘written off‘ after his Manchester United stint!

The 5x Ballon d’Or winner was asked if it surprised him while claiming the top-scorer award. Interestingly, Cristiano Ronaldo replied, “It comes as a surprise because if you go back and look at what happened in Manchester and what happened in the national team, people would have written me off“, as compiled by Record. Yet, these setbacks didn’t stop him from chasing glory. He then revealed an on-field factor that gave him the extra push ahead.

“The truth is that I focused, I had a good pre-season with Al Nassr and the coaching staff led by Luís Castro were very important in motivating me to have an excellent season, so it surprised me.” Concluding on an optimistic note, he said, “But winning doesn’t surprise me, I know I still have a lot of potential, I know I can offer a lot to Al Nassr and to Portugal”. Aside from the Maradona Award, he also bagged the Fans’ Favorite Player and the Best Middle East Player Award. However, he couldn’t get his hands on the Globe Soccer Best Men’s Player award. Erling Haaland took it home. But CR7 then admitted that he was still a ‘proud’ man!

Cristiano Ronaldo still stays relevant to beat ‘young animal’ Erling Haaland

After winning the Maradona Award, Cristiano Ronaldo was ecstatic over beating Erling Haaland in the top-scorer race. Speaking during the gala, he said, “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,” added the Real Madrid icon. In retrospect, his move to Saudi has turned out to be a mastermind decision.

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo Injury Update: Al Nassr Star Can Miss 3 Games’ Putting ‘Last Dance’ With Lionel Messi & Inter Miami in Danger

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Following a controversial interview with Piers Morgan before the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo suffered the wrath of the Manchester United fans. The Portuguese superstar was criticized immensely over his goal-scoring form and even had a fallout with Erik ten Hag. He decided to jump ship, which today bears fruit! 

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