Cristiano Ronaldo has assured fans that his story is ‘far from over’ after the Portugal international surpassed Pele’s record for most goals in a professional career on Sunday.
Ronaldo came under severe criticism in the last few days of days following Juventus disappointing exit from the Champions League on Tuesday. But, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner swung back to his best as he notched up a first-half hattrick against Cagliari in the Serie A.
The feat has taken the 36-year-old to 770 goals in all competitions but he has only now opened up on breaking Brazil legend Pele’s disputed record of 767, having exceeded his official number of 757 earlier this year.
Meanwhile, controversy had surrounded the actual number of goals the Brazilian legend had scored with news making the rounds on the internet that Pele recorded over 1000 goals during his playing days.
“The last few weeks were filled with news and stats considering me the world’s top scorer in football history, overcoming Pele’s 757 official goals,” the forward wrote in a lengthy post on Instagram.
“Although I’m thankful for that recognition, now it’s time for me to explain why I didn’t acknowledge that record until this moment.
“My everlasting and unconditional admiration [for Pele] led me to take into account his 767 score, assuming his nine goals for Sao Paulo State Team, as well as his single goal for the Brazilian Military Team, as official goals.
“The world has changed since then and football as changed as well, but this doesn’t mean that we can just erase history.
“Now I can’t wait for the next games and challenges! The next records and trophies! Believe me, this story is still far from being over. The future is tomorrow and there’s still a lot to win for Juventus and Portugal!”
Ronaldo, 36, now has 23 league goals this season, placing him above others on the goalscoring charts.
