Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the secret behind his incredible longevity, crediting sleep and a strict daily routine as the core of his continued success on the pitch.
At 40, the Portuguese legend still performs at an elite level with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, maintaining his trademark physique and hunger for goals. With 1,000 career goals in his sights, Ronaldo is now just 51 goals away from the milestone.
Sleep — Ronaldo’s ultimate performance tool
In a recent video shared by WHOOP, Ronaldo described sleep as the most powerful factor in his recovery and consistency.
“Sleep is the most important tool that I have,” he said. “To be consistent with the time that I go to bed and that I wake up. I go to bed around 11 or 12 and wake up around 8:30. It is my routine. It’s probably the most important thing we have in terms of health span.”
Known for his extraordinary discipline and professionalism, Ronaldo has long emphasized nutrition, recovery, and training as the pillars of his performance.
Since joining Al-Nassr, he has scored 105 goals in 118 games, securing back-to-back Saudi Pro League Golden Boots. This season alone, he already boasts five goals in five matches.
The chase for 1,000 goals
Ronaldo has made no secret of his ambition to reach 1,000 career goals, a target many believe is within reach.
Former teammate Danny Simpson told GOAL:
“I don’t think you can write him off. As long as he’s scoring and avoids injuries, it wouldn’t surprise me. I know he wants 1,000 goals. And I think he wants to play with his son.”
A dream to share the pitch with his son
Ronaldo has repeatedly spoken of his dream to play alongside his 14-year-old son, Cristianinho, who currently shines in Al-Nassr’s youth team.
“When I was his age, he is a little bit bigger and stronger. I was smaller. I think he’ll be bigger than me. Let’s see if he has the hunger, the hunger is the most difficult.”
For Ronaldo, who has conquered Europe’s top leagues, lifted five Ballon d’Ors, and led Portugal to Euro and Nations League victories, his next challenge is personal: to defy time long enough to share the pitch with his son.
“I would like it,” he admitted. “It’s not something that keeps me up at night, but I would like it. We’ll see. It’s more in his hands than in mine.”
Focused on team glory
Beyond personal milestones, Ronaldo remains committed to team success with Al-Nassr. Alongside fellow Portuguese star João Félix, he has helped the team to a strong start this season and will aim to continue that momentum in their upcoming clash against Al-Hazm on Sunday.