Cristiano Ronaldo Responds to Critics Who Called Him ‘Finished’ As He Continues to Impress in Saudi

• Cristiano Ronaldo has reacted to naysayers calling for his premature retirement
• The Al-Nassr captain continues to defy the odds despite nearing his career's end
• Ronaldo's critics had called him 'finished' but he has given them a 'cold' response

Cristiano Ronaldo has defiantly responded to those who prematurely brand him as 'finished' as he nears the twilight of his illustrious career.

The Portuguese star is ranked among the greatest footballers ever alongside Lionel Messi and has filled his trophy case with both team and individual silverware.

Despite entering the latter stages of his career, Ronaldo continues to mesmerise the football world, even after departing the mainstream European leagues.

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus ace opted for a less conventional path by joining Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia following an underwhelming performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

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While his initial season lacked silverware, Ronaldo's redemption came swiftly at the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign when he steered the Knights of Najd to the inaugural Arab Club Champions Cup.

The 38-year-old subsequently inspired Al-Nassr to an impressive seven-game winning streak across all competitions, establishing them as the most formidable team in the Saudi Pro League over the last five matches.

Currently leading the top flight in goal-scoring with nine goals in six appearances, the Portuguese phenom boasts an impressive average of 1.5 goals per game, per ESPN.

His outstanding performances have Al-Nassr, under the guidance of coach Luis Castro, eyeing their first league championship since the 2018/2019 season after finishing runners-up last season.

Despite maintaining an unwaveringly high level of play, many critics have prematurely labelled Ronaldo as 'finished,' with many speculating about his 'imminent' retirement.

In response, the legendary footballer delivered a resounding message, hinting at the possibility of extending his career beyond expectations.

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"They say Ronaldo is done… but it’s not true," he said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

"I will continue to play until my legs say, 'Cristiano, I'm done'. I still have a lot. I still love football and scoring goals. I still love winning. They say I'm done, but I'm still proving that it's not true."

Ronaldo achieves new milestone

Sports Brief also reported on Al-Nassr's recent victory against Al-Ahli serving to deepen the Portuguese star's imprint on football's record books.

Ronaldo now holds the record for the most wins in men's football history with an impressive total of 777 victories, surpassing his rival, Lionel Messi.

Following the game, the star expressed his affection for the Saudi Pro League and will now focus on the match against Al Tai set for next Friday.