Cristiano Ronaldo was honoured as the Best Middle East Player at the Globe Soccer Awards 2025 in Dubai on Sunday, with the Portuguese superstar saying his passion for football remains undiminished as he continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
The award, which recognises Ronaldo’s impact in the region with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, marked the second consecutive year the 40-year-old forward has received the honour.
Ronaldo recently moved closer to the historic milestone after scoring a double for Al-Nassr on Saturday, taking his overall tally to 956 goals for club and country. With the veteran forward indicating he could play for “one or two more years,” the target appears increasingly attainable.
“It’s hard to continue playing, but I am motivated,” Ronaldo said after receiving the award. “My passion is high, and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe. I always enjoy playing football, and I want to keep going.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner reiterated that his focus remains on winning trophies while chasing the landmark figure.
“You know what my goal is. I want to win trophies, and I want to reach that number (1,000 goals) that you all know,” he said. “I will reach the number for sure, if no injuries.”
Paris Saint-Germain dominated the awards night, with Ousmane Dembélé being named Best Male Player, while Spanish midfielder Aitana Bonmatí of Barcelona was adjudged Best Female Player. PSG were crowned Best Male Club, with Barcelona taking the Best Female Club honour.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique was named Best Coach, while teammate Vitinha won Best Midfielder.
Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal received the Best Forward award, and PSG’s Désiré Doué was recognised as the Emerging Player of the year.
