The European football governing body announced on Tuesday that Ronaldo will receive this prestigious award during the 36-team league phase draw ceremony in Monaco on Thursday.
Ronaldo’s record-breaking tally of 140 goals in 183 Champions League appearances underscores his dominance in the competition.
His journey through the tournament saw him don the shirts of Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, making an indelible mark at each club.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin praised Ronaldo’s achievements, stating, “Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass.”
Ronaldo’s Champions League story began in 2002 with Sporting CP in the qualifying rounds, followed by his group stage debut for Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson in October 2003.
However, it was not until April 2007 that he netted his first goal in the competition, during a quarterfinal victory over Roma.
Over his illustrious career, Ronaldo has lifted the Champions League trophy five times: once with Manchester United in 2008 and four times with Real Madrid in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Additionally, he holds the record for the most goals scored in Champions League finals during the competition’s modern era, further solidifying his legendary status.
