Portuguese star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his pride in winning three awards, including the prestigious top scorer accolade for his outstanding performance in the Saudi Pro League.
Taking to Instagram on Saturday after winning big at the 2023 Globe Soccer Awards, the Al-Nassr star posted three photos of himself holding the awards with a caption that reads, "Proud to have won three awards today. A big thank you to all the staff, teammates, and fans who keep making me better every day!"
Ronaldo's remarkable goal-scoring record of 54 goals in 59 games for Al-Nassr overshadowed the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland, who had 52, 52, and 50 goals respectively in three of Europe's top five leagues.
Despite the argument surrounding the comparison, Ronaldo, speaking at the awards ceremony, declared himself 'the best goalscorer' of the season.
"I was the best goalscorer this season. Imagine beating young animals like Haaland. I’m proud. And I’ll be 39 soon! I like when people doubt me again and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism," Ronaldo asserted, displaying his characteristic confidence.
Moreover, the football icon shared his perspective on the strength of the Saudi Pro League, saying that it was on par with or even stronger than France's Ligue 1.
Ronaldo remarked, "To be honest, I think the Saudi league is not worse than the French league, in my opinion. In Saudi, I think it is more competitive. They can say whatever they want; it is just an opinion. I have played here for one year, so I know what I am talking about. But, I think right now we are better than the French league."
The awards ceremony also saw a meeting between Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland, two footballing superstars who had exceptional years in their respective leagues. Haaland, who has been likened to Ronaldo due to his goal-scoring acumen, aims to challenge the legendary player's records, especially in the UEFA Champions League.
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