Cristiano Ronaldo has been celebrated as the all-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League, receiving a special award at the 2024/25 draw ceremony held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin presented the accolade, recognizing Ronaldo’s exceptional contributions to Europe’s premier club competition.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Ronaldo’s remarkable career in the Champions League spans over 18 years, during which he has scored an unprecedented 140 goals in 183 appearances. He remains 11 goals ahead of Lionel Messi and 46 goals clear of Robert Lewandowski, solidifying his position at the top of the scoring charts.
Key Highlights of Ronaldo’s Champions League Career:
- Top Scorer Titles: Ronaldo has finished as the leading scorer in the Champions League on seven occasions, surpassing any other player. His scoring prowess was particularly notable during Manchester United’s 2007/08 triumph and Real Madrid’s three consecutive titles from 2015/16 to 2017/18.
- Single Season Record: He holds the record for the most goals in a single Champions League season, with 17 goals in 2013/14.
- Finals Appearances: Ronaldo is the only player to have scored in three separate Champions League finals (2008, 2014, 2017).
- Scoring Streak: He also holds the record for the longest scoring streak in the Champions League, finding the net in 11 consecutive matches from June 2017 to April 2018.
- Hat-Tricks: Ronaldo has scored an impressive eight Champions League hat-tricks.
Enduring Legacy
“Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation,” stated UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. “His extraordinary goalscoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass.” Ronaldo’s career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, characterized by his professional dedication, work ethic, and passion for the game.
In addition to his Champions League success, Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in UEFA club competitions (145 goals) and the most prolific player in men’s international football (130 goals). His illustrious career continues to inspire football players worldwide, exemplifying the heights that can be achieved through talent and perseverance.
