UEFA To Honour Cristiano Ronaldo With Special Award In Monaco

Cristiano Ronaldo, the top scorer in UEFA Champions League history, will receive a special award from UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. This honour recognises his outstanding contributions to the competition over more than 18 years.

Ronaldo's achievements will be celebrated during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony. The event is scheduled for Thursday, 29 August, at the Grimal Forum in Monaco.

Record-Breaking Career

The former forward for Sporting Clube de Portugal, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus has netted 140 goals in 183 Champions League matches. He leads Lionel Messi by 11 goals and Robert Lewandowski by 46 goals in the scoring charts.

Ronaldo has been the top scorer in seven different Champions League seasons. His first was with Manchester United in 2007/08, and his last was with Real Madrid in 2017/18 when he scored 15 goals. He also holds the record for most goals in a single season with 17 goals in 2013/14.

Unmatched Achievements

The Portugal forward has won the competition five times: once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid. He is the only player to scored in three separate UEFA Champions League finals (2008, 2014, 2017).

Ronaldo also holds the record for the longest scoring streak in Champions League history. He scored in 11 consecutive matches from June 2017 to April 2018. Additionally, he has eight Champions League hat-tricks to his name.

A Legacy of Excellence

"Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation," said Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President. "His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements seem destined to stand the test of time."

Čeferin added that Ronaldo's sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours. "His professionalism, work ethic, dedication, and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate," he said.

Beyond Club Football

The multiple Ballon d'Or and UEFA Men's Player of the Year recipient is also the all-time leading scorer in all UEFA club competitions with 145 goals in 197 appearances. Additionally, he is the most prolific player in men's international football with 130 goals in 212 appearances.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Champions League Career In Numbers

This special recognition from UEFA highlights Ronaldo's remarkable legacy and enduring impact on European football's premier club competition. His records may stand as benchmarks for future generations of players aiming for greatness.