Cristiano Ronaldo has always talked about chasing the 1,000-goal mark, but this week he narrowed his remaining ambitions down to two specific targets as Portugal gathered for its September-October camp.
"The missions are now two," Ronaldo said. "Winning the Nations League and reaching 1,000 career goals."
Portugal begin the defence of their UEFA Nations League title against Wales on Thursday, having won the competition for the second time in Ronaldo's career in 2025. As for the goal tally, the forward made clear it isn't something he's fixated on, even if he's confident he'll get there eventually.
"I've already admitted that I want to get there [1,000 goals], and I will get there," Ronaldo said. "An obsession? No. I never do things obsessively, because if I do, things don't turn out the way I want. The rest is about enjoying each day. Now it's the Nations League with the new coach, I hope things go as well as possible and that I can enjoy it. But I really want to achieve that record."
Asked which team he'd like to score his 1,000th goal for, Ronaldo let the question hang until a reporter answered "Portugal" for him. He then added: "Scoring my 1,000th goal for the national team would be the culmination of something, a beautiful story."
Ronaldo Admits He Weighed Retirement
Speaking in his first camp under new manager Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo revealed he had considered stepping away from international football after Portugal's elimination in the World Cup last 16 against Spain, the eventual champions.
Lionel Messi announced his own international retirement following that tournament, but Ronaldo, while admitting he thought it over, said he still feels he can contribute to the national team.
"Yes I did [consider retiring from Portugal]," Ronaldo said. "Of course, I'm always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also. I'm a thinker. You have to think. This is why you see me here now. It means I will continue. I had a conversation with our president, with our coach. I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want, and will finish when I feel like I'm not doing anything here. I can give to the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football."
He continued: "I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that, even when I am retired in 10 years. I'm happy with myself. It doesn't matter if I play tomorrow, if I rest the next game, for me the most important thing is that I feel good."
Ronaldo is set to make his 234th appearance for Portugal on Thursday, chasing his 980th career goal as he continues working toward those two final missions.
