The European Governing Body, the UEFA will present Cristiano Ronaldo with a distinguished accolade during the Champions League draw on Thursday. The Al Nassr forward will be recognized for his outstanding achievements in Europe's top club tournament, which will be adopting a new structure starting this season.
In an official announcement, the body hailed the Portuguese star for his remarkable longevity and decided to honour him for his exception performance. Ronaldo has netted 140 goals in the Champions League across 183 games, representing Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
''Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time leading goalscorer in the UEFA Champions League, will be honoured with a special award from UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin in recognition of his remarkable legacy in the world's most prestigious competition. Ronaldo's achievements in Europe's premier club competition – accomplished over the course of more than 18 years – will be recognised during the inaugural 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 36-team league phase draw ceremony, which will take place on Thursday 29 August at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco'', the statement read.
The forward has netted 140 goals in the Champions League over 183 appearances. Ronaldo claimed the Golden Boot in the UEFA Champions League in seven of the 18 seasons he participated in the tournament. He also holds the record for the highest number of goals in a single season, with 17— a milestone he reached during the 2013/14 campaign.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin remarked on the unique accolade set to be awarded to Cristiano Ronaldo, noting that it recognizes his remarkable goal-scoring accomplishments.
''Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass. His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours," Ceferin said.