Real Madrid icon Roberto Carlos argues that even if Cristiano Ronaldo achieves the elusive 1000-goal landmark, he will not be the first footballer to do so. The legendary Brazilian left-back insists that his compatriot Pelé remains the only individual in football history to have officially reached a thousand career goals. Speaking with Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Carlos emphasized that Pelé’s storied scoring record deserves permanent recognition and should not be overshadowed by modern milestones.
Carlos expressed total confidence that the 41-year-old Portuguese superstar will eventually hit the four-figure mark, given his current form and exceptional physical condition. However, the World Cup winner remains adamant that Pelé established this exclusive club decades ago. He praised Ronaldo’s ongoing impact in the Saudi Pro League, noting that the Al-Nassr captain serves as a vital blueprint for longevity and professional discipline in the sport.
“For those who love Cristiano and soccer, it’s great to see him keep making history and breaking records. The only player who ever scored 1000 goals was Pele, but Cristiano might be able to join that group. I see him looking happy and sure of himself in the Saudi league. I’m absolutely certain he’ll reach that milestone. He never gets injured. He keeps playing really well, he’s a great example for others, and Portugal should be proud,” Carlos said via World Soccer Talk.
The Brazilian legend further suggested that Ronaldo possesses the capability to play at an elite level for several more years. Carlos jokingly threatened to intervene if the five-time Ballon d’Or winner ever considers retirement, highlighting the immense inspiration he provides to the next generation of athletes. He believes Ronaldo’s presence remains essential to the game regardless of age.
“Cristiano can’t stop, ever. If he ever decides to stop playing, I’ll call him and tell him not to stop. He should never stop playing soccer, even if he can only use one leg or has to crawl to move. He gives a lot of strength and energy to any boy who wants to start playing,” he added.
Ronaldo currently boasts a staggering 961 career goals for club and country, though he has missed Al-Nassr’s last three competitive fixtures. As the football world monitors his pursuit of the thousand-goal mark, the debate regarding historical scoring records continues to intensify. While official FIFA data often differs from historical Brazilian claims, Carlos maintains that Pelé’s legacy as the original pioneer of the 1000-goal feat stands unchallenged.
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