Cristiano Ronaldo has won a special FIFA award after being snubbed for their player of year shortlist.
The Man United striker became the men’s all-time top goalscorer in September when he scored twice for Portugal against the Republic of Ireland and was handed a unique accolade at The Best ceremony on Monday.
“First of all I have to say thank you to my teammates, especially the national team during the last 2020 years.
“I never thought [I would beat] the record, to score 115 – the record was 109, right? So, six goals ahead. I’m so proud for this special award from FIFA, an organisation I respect a lot.
“Of course, I have to say thank you to my family, my wife, my kids – and soon I will be a father again, so really proud. It’s a great achievement,” CR7 said upon accepting the award in Zurich.
?✨ Cristiano Ronaldo is the recipient of #TheBest FIFA Special Award!
?? Legend. Winner. Goalscoring machine. @Cristiano. pic.twitter.com/ZnzGMJKCEk
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) January 17, 2022
Ronaldo was asked how he is maintaining his fine goalscoring form at the age of 36, and insisted he is as motivated as ever to score goals and win trophies.
“It’s a passion, I still have a passion for the game, not just to score goals but to entertain myself,” Ronaldo added. “I’ve played football since I was five or six years old so whenI get to the pitch even in training I still enjoy it and my motivation’s still good.
“I’m 37 soon, I feel good and motivated. I keep working hard since I was 18 and I continue. I have that passion and want to continue.
“People ask sometimes how many more years I’m going to play and I say I hope to play more than four or five years. It’s all about mentally, because physically if you treat your body good, it’ll treat you back.”
