Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first man to score at five World Cups
Short overview
Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the only male player to score at five different FIFA World Cup tournaments, a record that underscores his longevity and goal-scoring prowess on the global stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name further into football history by becoming the first male player to score at five editions of the FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese captain achieved the milestone during the 2022 tournament in Qatar, adding to his goals from 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018.
Record-breaking achievement
Ronaldo's feat places him ahead of other legendary scorers who have found the net at four World Cups, including Pelé, Uwe Seeler, and Miroslav Klose. The 37-year-old forward opened his account in 2006 with a penalty against Iran, and has since scored a total of eight World Cup goals across five tournaments.
Consistency across decades
Ronaldo's ability to perform at the highest level over nearly two decades is unparalleled. He made his World Cup debut as a 21-year-old in Germany 2006, where Portugal reached the semifinals. In 2010, he scored against North Korea; in 2014, he netted against Ghana; and in 2018, he scored a hat-trick against Spain. His 2022 goal came from the penalty spot against Ghana in Portugal's opening group match.
Legacy and impact
This record adds to Ronaldo's extensive list of achievements, including five Ballon d'Or awards and numerous club titles. He remains a key figure for Portugal, leading the team in their quest for a second World Cup title after their 2016 European Championship triumph. The milestone was widely celebrated by fans and pundits, highlighting his enduring influence on the sport.
More on these topics
England fan collects beer from all 48 World Cup nations
England supporter Gus Hully has collected one beer from each of the 48 nations competing at the World Cup. BBC Sport met the fan to hear about his unique collection.
US Prepares for World Cup with 'Gridlock Alert Days' and Ticket Rush
As the US gears up to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, officials warn of 'gridlock alert days' and a scramble for tickets. The event, considered the world's largest sporting spectacle, poses significant logistical challenges for host cities.
Cryptic Social Media Post Hints at World Cup Announcement
A mysterious post on X (formerly Twitter) declaring 'WORLD CUP IS COMING!' has sparked speculation among sports fans. The post includes a link to a broadcast, but no official confirmation has been made. Details remain unclear.
Craig Gordon: Scotland's 43-Year-Old Goalkeeper Defies Odds for World
Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, 43, has been included in the World Cup squad despite a recent career-threatening injury. His journey is marked by multiple comebacks, making his selection a remarkable achievement.
