Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable legacy in the UEFA Champions League will be acknowledged with a special award, announced UEFA in a statement on Tuesday. The Portugal captain will receive the honor from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony, taking place on Thursday, August 29th at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
With an astonishing 140 goals in 183 appearances, Ronaldo has etched his name as the highest goalscorer in the Champions League across seven seasons and secured five Champions League titles. His exceptional goal-scoring achievements, spanning over 18 years in Europe’s premier club competition, have earned him recognition from UEFA.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass,” commented Ceferin.
Ronaldo’s dominance extends beyond his total goal count. He holds the record for the most goals in a single Champions League season, netting 17 times in the 2013/14 season, including the extra-time winning goal against Atlético Madrid in the final. He is also credited with the longest Champions League scoring streak, scoring in 11 consecutive matches from June 2017 to April 2018.
The Portuguese forward has won the Champions League once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid, making him the first player in history to secure five Champions League titles. He is the only player to have scored in three separate UEFA Champions League finals (2008, 2014, 2017) and has achieved a staggering eight Champions League hat-tricks.
Beyond his Champions League triumphs, Ronaldo’s accomplishments include multiple Ballon d’Or awards, UEFA Men’s Player of the Year awards, and the title of all-time leading scorer in all UEFA club competitions with 145 goals in 197 appearances. Additionally, he is the most prolific player in men’s international football history, having scored 130 goals in 212 appearances.
This special award serves as a fitting tribute to Ronaldo’s unparalleled contributions to the Champions League. His dedication, passion, and exceptional goal-scoring ability have made him an iconic figure in the world of football.
