Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his 40th birthday on February 5, 2025, with a mix of confidence and nostalgia, asserting his status as one of football’s greatest players.
As he marked this significant milestone, Ronaldo reflected on his illustrious career and reiterated his belief in his unparalleled abilities on the field.
Birthday Celebrations in Times Square
Ronaldo’s birthday was commemorated with a unique event in Times Square, New York City, where fans gathered to perform his iconic “Siu” celebration.
This mass gathering aimed to set a world record for the most people executing the famous move simultaneously.
The “Siu,” characterized by Ronaldo’s signature leap and shout of “Siiiiiuuuuu,” has become synonymous with his goal-scoring triumphs since he first introduced it during a pre-season match with Real Madrid in 2013.
The event was organized by sculptor Sergio Furnari, who created a statue of Ronaldo to honor the occasion.
“I Am the Greatest”
In an interview with Spanish television channel La Sexta, Ronaldo confidently declared, “I am the greatest scorer in history.”
He emphasized his versatility as a player, stating that he excels in various aspects of the game, including heading, free kicks, and speed.
He claimed, “I have never seen anyone better than me,” reinforcing his self-assured stance that he is the most complete player to have ever played the sport.
Ronaldo holds numerous records, including the highest number of international appearances (217) and goals (135) for Portugal.
His achievements have sparked ongoing debates about his legacy compared to other football legends like Lionel Messi.
Despite acknowledging Messi’s talents, Ronaldo maintains that he will ultimately be remembered as the best.
Continuing Ambitions
As he enters this new decade of life, Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down.
He continues to play for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and aims to achieve several milestones: reaching 1,000 career goals (currently at 923), participating in the 2026 World Cup, and attaining 250 caps for Portugal.
His former teammates and coaches believe that with his dedication to fitness and performance, he could extend his career even further.
Ronaldo’s commitment to longevity is evident in his lifestyle choices; he actively seeks knowledge about nutrition and health to maintain peak physical condition.
His former doctor noted Ronaldo’s curiosity about scientific advancements related to fitness and longevity.