Cristiano Ronaldo talks 1,000 goals and why he's “disappointed” with young players

Cristiano Ronaldo, he who took his time to return to shine on home turf because of his talent on the field, matched by the humility of his words, almost philosophical. Recently, during the Portuguese Football Federation gala, he was given the Quina de Platina as a prize-an exclusive award-for having reached his 200 appearances for the Portuguese National Team. This was not merely a celebration of his career but an opportunity given to Ronaldo to show the world a more human and reflective side of himself.

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A Journey of Ambition for CR7

While receiving the Quina de Platina, Ronaldo wept. Beyond that player on the field, he showed himself thankful, aware. "Thank you to the Federation for this award, for the long journey I've had with the National Team," he said thus, remembering early days and how dreams would change over the years.

He remembered the 18-year-old who had dreamed of playing for Portugal and how that dream grew with every milestone reached: "It's funny; when I joined the national team at 18, I had one dream-to make my debut. Then I aimed for 25 caps, then 50… And then I thought, 'Why not 100?' A nice round number." These words of nostalgia show a player who, even while standing at the mountain peak, remembers the worth of each stage of his journey.

Disappointed, Players Do Not Accept the National Team

Ronaldo also seized the moment to speak to a very sensitive issue: just how rare and precious his love for the national team truly is. He showed disappointment in those players who do not want to represent Portugal. "I'm often disappointed with some players who don't want to play for the national team," he said with the seriousness of a meaning behind his desire to wear the Portuguese jersey.

This sounded like a reminder to the younger players and the rising stars worldwide. An entire career full of trophies and awards, he made it known nothing had shaped the honor of playing for one's country. "After playing for so many clubs, winning so many trophies, Champions Leagues, Ballon d'Ors, FIFA awards… nothing compares to representing your country," he said. His words thus sounded like an invitation to future generations to live with pride and meaning inspired by that experience.

Ronaldo's Vision of Future

Cristiano didn't stop there with the gift. He showed he still has huge dreams for Portugal. Against comments that Portugal was a "small country," he shot back: "Portugal is a big country. We have to think that way. We have to think that no matter the size of the country, we have it all." Highlighting the infrastructure, stadiums, coaches, and player potential that Portuguese soccer has all it takes to win at the highest level.

With a bright vision, Ronaldo showed he could do more for the country than just soccer. "I believe Portugal will be great, not just in soccer but in other sports too," he added.

The Challenge of 1,000 Goals

The ceremony also brought one of those moments when Ronaldo was asked about his goal of reaching 1,000 goals. "Honestly, it's my fault. Sometimes in life, in soccer, it's on a personal level, I'm now focused on living in the moment; I think that's what's most important," he said with the demeanor of one no longer burdened by numbers. Instead, he now would not be fixated on the goal but lives in the present.

Cristiano confesses that long-term goals are no longer the focus, admitting it is more about "seeing how my legs respond." And with a relaxed tone, he added: "If I hit a thousand, great; if not, well, no one else has scored as many goals as me anyway, so…" He makes fun of the challenge but still manages to let the confidence and ease acquired over time come across.