Cristiano Ronaldo applauding in a Portugal kit
7
Portugal • Forward

CristianoRonaldo

From Madeira to the biggest stages in world football, driven by one goal: to be the best.

Born
5 Feb 1985, Funchal
Nation
Portugal
Position
Forward
Club
Al Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo running with the ball for Al Nassr

The Story

Cristiano Ronaldo grew up on the Portuguese island of Madeira and made his senior debut for Sporting CP as a teenager. A move to Manchester United in 2003 turned a quick, skilful winger into one of the most dangerous forwards in the world.

At Real Madrid he became a record-breaking goal machine, then took his relentless standards to Juventus, back to Manchester United and on to Al Nassr. Along the way he led Portugal to their first major trophy at Euro 2016.

Honours At A Glance

The trophies and awards that define one of the greatest careers in football history.

05
Ballon d'Or Wins
05
Champions League Titles
01
European Championship
05
Professional Clubs

Career Path

Six turning points, from the first senior appearance to the latest chapter of a remarkable career.

2002

Sporting CP

Senior debut in Lisbon at 17.

2003

Manchester United

Becomes a star in England.

2009

Real Madrid

Joins in a world-record move.

2016

Euro Champion

Wins Euro 2016 with Portugal.

2018

Juventus

Moves to Italy and wins Serie A.

2023

Al Nassr

A new chapter in Saudi Arabia.

Signature Moments

The nights that fans will always connect with his name.

01
2008

The Moscow Header

Heads Manchester United in front in the Champions League final against Chelsea.

02
2016

Euro 2016 Glory

Leads Portugal to their first major trophy, driving the team on even after injury.

03
2018

The Overhead Kick

Scores a stunning overhead kick in Turin and earns applause from the home fans.

04
2018

Hat-Trick Against Spain

Completes a World Cup hat-trick with a late free kick to rescue a 3-3 draw.

7
“
Power, timing and an obsession with being the best.
Messi CR7
Lionel Messi with the World Cup trophy
Next Legend

Lionel Messi

From Rosario to world champion. Discover the story of the other half of the greatest rivalry in football.

Messi CR7

The Rivalry In Numbers

Two players pushed each other to the top of the game for more than a decade. Here is how they compare.

Ronaldo
Messi
05
Ballon d'Or
08
05
Champions League
04
2002
Senior Debut
2004
7
Shirt Number
10
1985
Born
1987

Two different styles, one shared standard, and a debate that fans will never finish.