Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines once again at the Globe Soccer Awards held in Dubai, where he was celebrated not only for his outstanding career but also for his future aspirations. The legendary Portuguese footballer was awarded the titles of Best Player of the Year for the Middle East and All-Time Top Scorer, reflecting both his remarkable talent and persistent dedication to the sport as he approaches 40 years of age.
Accepting his prestigious accolades, Ronaldo humbly acknowledged the contributions of his teammates and the support of his current club, Al Nassr. "It is always an honor to be here; it is a pleasure to participate in this gala," he said, emphasizing the importance of collective effort. To his credit, he expressed gratitude for the the recognition: "For this trophy, I must thank my teammates and my club, Al Nassr. Individually, I have done very well, and I want to be champion also here in Saudi Arabia."
The event prompted Ronaldo to discuss his perspective on the current state of football, particularly his views concerning the Premier League and his own career longevity. He described the Premier League as the most challenging league worldwide, saying, "Every team is strong, every player is strong. It’s different football today; there are no easy matches." This echoes his broader analysis of challenges faced by teams, including Manchester United, where he pointed out, "The problem is not only the coach; it's much more than this. I see it as similar to putting a sick fish back in the aquarium; it will get sick again."
Ronaldo's reflections on his future were equally engaging. He hinted at preparing for retirement but insisted he would only step down when he no longer feels motivated. "Now I just want to enjoy football. Then I will plan my retirement, which could be in one or two years. I am about to turn 40, but as long as I am motivated, I will keep playing," he stated, giving fans hope for his continuing presence on the field.
Despite speculation about coaching roles, Ronaldo firmly stated, "I am not and will never be a coach. I don’t even see myself as the president of a club, but I could become the owner of one. It will depend on many factors, including the right opportunities." His comments were met with intrigue as he left the door open for future possibilities, smiling as he remarked, "If I have already one club in mind? Not yet, but perhaps there are some."">
Reflecting on international football, Ronaldo took the opportunity to share his thoughts on his current league, the Saudi Pro League, which he argued is superior to the French league. He asserted, "With the advancing age, you have to work hard to maintain your fitness. I am really happy to play in Saudi Arabia. When I said many great players would come here, it happened. No doubt the Saudi league is much higher than the French one." He explained how harsh playing conditions, such as the extreme heat, present significant challenges for athletes, stating, "Try sprinting at 38-39-40 degrees, and you will see. It is not easy."
Throughout the awards ceremony, Ronaldo gracefully wrapped up his speech with nods to his fellow nominees. He acknowledged Vinicius Junior's talent for the Ballon d'Or award, which was controversially won by Rodri, saying, "Vinicius deserved it. He scored the decisive goal in the Champions League final. This recognition should have gone to him, but Rodri also had his merits." This moment not only reflected his competitive spirit but also his respect for his peers.
Ronaldo’s appearance at the Globe Soccer Awards wasn’t just about accolades, though. His prestigious Rolex GMT-Master II Iced Out, valued at 400,000 euros, caught the eye of onlookers, showcasing his esteemed status both on and off the field. The watch, made entirely of white gold and adorned with 30 carats of diamonds, perfectly exemplified the opulence associated with the football star.
Rumors are already swirling about which club Ronaldo might invest in as he ponders his ownership ambitions. The names of Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon have surfaced, indicating his strong ties to clubs he once played for. Given his wealth and influence, Ronaldo's future club ownership could significantly impact the football world.
With Ronaldo still displaying enthusiasm for the game, football fans worldwide eagerly anticipate what his future might hold as he continues to work tirelessly to achieve greatness even late in his career. Undeniably, Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the sport's defining figures, inspiring both current and future generations of athletes.
