Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo stated that he still has the energy and passion to compete with younger players, noting that he is eager for more time on the pitch despite his family’s insistence on reducing his physical workload.

The Al Nassr forward and the all-time top international scorer with 141 goals in 223 matches for Portugal said he wants to keep playing against his family’s wishes.

At 40 years old, Ronaldo has scored five goals in six matches across all competitions with Al Nassr this season and recently became the top scorer in World Cup qualifiers, sharing the record after scoring his 39th goal during a win over Hungary.

Ronaldo told Canal 11 during an award ceremony, “People, especially my family, say: It’s time to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?” “But I don’t think so. I believe I am still performing well, helping my club and national team, so why shouldn’t I continue?”

He added, “I’m sure I will feel satisfied when I end my career because I gave my best. I know I don’t have many years left, but I try to enjoy the few remaining years to the fullest.”

Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, added another prestigious title to his individual record by receiving the “Excellence” award at the Portugal Football Awards ceremony on Tuesday.

He said, “This is not an award to mark the end of my career but rather recognition of years of effort, dedication, and ambition. I love winning and helping younger generations, and they also help me maintain my level and keep competing. This is what excites me: competing with the youth. I am still passionate about this.”

Ronaldo has not set a retirement date. He signed a new contract with Al Nassr, ensuring he stays in the Saudi league until June 2027, while leading Portugal to win the UEFA Nations League last June.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has scored over 940 goals in his career. He said, “I always tell you that if I could, I would choose to play only for the national team and not for any other club because that is the pinnacle of a footballer’s career.”

He added, “It is an honor for me to play for the national team.”

The 2026 World Cup will be Ronaldo’s last chance to win the major trophy that has eluded him, but he is focused only on the task at hand.

Portugal will host the Republic of Ireland in World Cup qualifiers on Saturday before facing Hungary on October 14.