As Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his 40th birthday on February 5, 2025, football fans worldwide reflect on the legendary career of one of the greatest players to have ever graced the pitch. From his humble beginnings in Madeira to conquering the heights of football with Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and the Portugal national team, Ronaldo’s journey is a testament to relentless ambition, dedication, and an insatiable hunger for success.
Born in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, in 1985, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro showed early promise in football. His talent was evident from a young age, leading him to join Sporting CP’s youth academy. His dazzling skills and remarkable athleticism caught the attention of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who signed him in 2003.
At Manchester United, Ronaldo transformed from a promising youngster into a global superstar. His flair, dribbling, and goal-scoring prowess helped the club win three Premier League titles (2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09) and the UEFA Champions League in 2007-08. He also won his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, signalling the arrival of a footballing phenomenon.
In 2009, Ronaldo made a record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid for €94 million, a move that would define his legacy. Over nine seasons at the Spanish giants, he shattered records, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals in 438 appearances.
His impact at Real Madrid was monumental. He led the team to four Champions League titles (2013-14, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18), including an unprecedented three-peat. His performances in crucial matches, such as the 2017 and 2018 finals, cemented his reputation as a player for the biggest occasions. Additionally, he won four more Ballon d’Or titles during his time in Madrid (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017), solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.
In 2018, Ronaldo took on a new challenge, signing with Juventus for €100 million. Despite being in his mid-30s, he continued to showcase his brilliance, leading Juventus to two Serie A titles (2018-19, 2019-20) and winning the league’s top scorer award in the 2020-21 season. His impact was not only on the pitch but also off it, bringing global attention and commercial success to the club.
In 2021, Ronaldo made a sensational return to Manchester United, where he remained a prolific goal-scorer despite the team’s struggles. However, by 2023, he opted for a new adventure in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, showcasing his ability to remain competitive in a different footballing landscape while contributing to the growing influence of Middle Eastern football.
Ronaldo’s impact extended beyond club football. He is Portugal’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, leading the national team to its first major trophy, the UEFA Euro 2016, followed by the UEFA Nations League title in 2019. His leadership and performances on the international stage solidified his legendary status.
As Cristiano Ronaldo turns 40, his legacy remains indelible. His journey from a boy in Madeira to a footballing legend epitomizes resilience, excellence, and an unyielding desire to be the best. Whether on the pitch or off it, Ronaldo’s influence will continue to shape football for generations to come.