Ronaldo Sets World Cup Qualifying Scoring Record

Cristiano Ronaldo has equaled the all-time record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, netting his 39th goal to match Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz. His recent penalty in Portugal's 3-2 victory over Hungary highlights his ongoing impact as he approaches 1,000 career goals and prepares for his sixth World Cup. Ronaldo continues to impress despite turning 40, having scored 26 goals in 28 matches since then, and remains a key figure for both his club Al Nassr and the Portuguese national team. Beyond football, Ronaldo has become a cultural ambassador for Saudi Arabia, featuring centrally in the Saudi Tourism Authority’s Vision 2030 campaign and committing to make the Kingdom his permanent home. This campaign promotes Saudi Arabia as a global destination through a year-round calendar of events, aiming to transform the country’s cultural and tourism landscape. Ronaldo's presence symbolizes the intersection of sport, culture, and national transformation in Saudi Arabia, highlighting his evolving role from football icon to ambassador of change.