- Cristiano Ronaldo is the first player to win the Champions League five times since 1992
- He Led the competition’s scoring charts in more seasons than any other player
- His exceptional achievements have solidified Ronaldo's status as one of the greatest footballers of all time
Cristiano Ronaldo has been celebrated as the UEFA Champions League’s all-time leading goalscorer with a special accolade from UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
This tribute was presented during the draw ceremony for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League, held on August 29th at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
With a career spanning over 18 years, Ronaldo’s prolific scoring in Europe’s top club competition has set him apart. He boasts an impressive 140 goals from 183 appearances, holding a significant lead over Lionel Messi by 11 goals and Robert Lewandowski by 46.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goalscoring 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. Over more than two decades, he has continuously evolved and refined his game while preserving a youthful passion for scoring and celebrating goals. His professionalism, work ethic, dedication and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate,” said UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
Ronaldo’s record includes leading the Champions League’s scoring charts in seven seasons, from his eight goals during Manchester United’s 2007/08 title run to his remarkable 15 goals in Real Madrid’s 2017/18 campaign.
He also set the record for most goals in a single season with 17 in 2013/14 and has scored in three different finals (2008, 2014, 2017).
Beyond his five Champions League titles, Ronaldo holds the record for the longest scoring streak in the competition, with goals in 11 consecutive matches, and has netted an incredible eight Champions League hat-tricks.
Additionally, he is the all-time leading scorer in all UEFA club competitions and men’s international football.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Champions League Milestones:
- Appearances: 183
- Goals: 140
- Titles: 5 (2008, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018)
- Top Scorer: 7 times
- Most Goals in a Single Season: 17 (2013/14)
- Longest Scoring Streak: 11 games
