Achieving a hat-trick of awards, Ronaldo immediately hints at a return to Europe

Cristiano Ronaldo was honored as the Best Middle Eastern Player at the Globe Soccer Awards 2025, completing a hat-trick of consecutive titles, while also leaving open the possibility of returning to Europe in the latter part of his career.

At the Globe Soccer Awards 2025 held in Dubai, Cristiano Ronaldo reaffirmed his status by being named the “Best Middle Eastern Player.”

The Portuguese superstar triumphed over prominent names currently playing in the region such as Salem Al-Dawsari, Karim Benzema, and Riyad Mahrez to step onto the podium, marking the third consecutive year he has dominated this award which gathers many top stars active in the region.

This award comes as Ronaldo continues to maintain an impressive scoring form at the age of 40. His brace against Al Akhdoud helped Al Nassr secure a 3-0 victory, simultaneously raising his career goal tally to 956. This year alone, Ronaldo has netted 40 goals, marking the 14th year he has scored 40 or more goals in a calendar year, a rare testament to his longevity in elite football.

After receiving the award, Ronaldo expressed his strong desire to keep playing and pushing his limits. “I am still very passionate and want to continue. It doesn’t matter whether I play in the Middle East or Europe,”, the captain of Portugal shared. He emphasized that his greatest joy remains stepping onto the pitch, scoring goals, and competing for titles at the highest level.

These remarks quickly sparked speculation about Ronaldo’s potential return to Europe in the final stages of his career. Previously, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star hinted he might play one or two more seasons, with the 2026 World Cup expected to be his last major international tournament.

Ronaldo’s statement that “Europe or the Middle East doesn’t matter” is seen as an opening signal rather than a firm commitment to stay long-term in the Saudi Pro League.

Aside from future plans, Ronaldo also reaffirmed the biggest goal remaining in his career. “I am confident I will reach that milestone if I avoid injury,”, he said about the 1,000-goal target.

With 956 goals already scored, the gap is not far considering his current scoring rate at Al Nassr and his remarkable physical condition, which Ronaldo often demonstrates through training photos and his fit physique.

The Globe Soccer Awards, often called the “Dubai Ballon d’Or,” have honored Ronaldo six times, including the last three consecutive years. This continuous recognition reflects not only his achievements on the field but also his enduring appeal and influence in the Middle East region.

At 40, when many players have long retired, Cristiano Ronaldo still faces major milestones, being honored and leaving the door open for a new chapter ahead. Europe may no longer be his only destination, but clearly, his journey is far from over.