But, at 39, his story is undoubtedly coming to an end and he will be desperate to ensure it has a dream denouement.
While Ronaldo has not ruled out playing at the 2026 World Cup, when he will be 41, this could be his final major tournament, and bowing out like his long-term adversary Lionel Messi would be the perfect send-off.
Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory at the end of what was a disastrous tournament for Ronaldo in Qatar.
Without a club after his Manchester United exit was confirmed in the build-up, he lost his place in the Portugal team and they were eventually dumped out by Morocco in the quarter-finals, when Ronaldo left in tears.
The build-up this time has been better for Ronaldo, who comes into the tournament having scored 35 goals in the Saudi Pro League this season.
Denne historien er fra June 18, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
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Denne historien er fra June 18, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
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