Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the key secret behind his remarkable career longevity, saying that quality sleep and discipline are his “most important tools.”
At 40, the Portuguese superstar continues to impress both for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and his national team, showing no signs of slowing down even after two decades at the top level. Ronaldo, who has already scored 105 goals in 118 appearances for Al-Nassr, says his goal is to reach 1,000 career goals before retiring — and he is just 51 away from achieving that milestone.
In a new video shared by WHOOP on social media, Ronaldo opened up about how maintaining a strict routine has helped him sustain peak performance.
“Sleep is the most important tool that I have,” Ronaldo 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 I wake up around 8:30. It is my routine. It is the most important thing that we have in terms of health and longevity.”
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Ronaldo’s career has been defined by his unmatched discipline — from his carefully managed diet to his intense post-match recovery sessions. This dedication has enabled him to remain one of the world’s most productive players, even in the physically demanding Saudi Pro League. He has already bagged five goals in as many matches this season, putting him among the league’s top scorers once again.
Former Manchester United defender Danny Simpson, who played alongside Ronaldo during his early years at Old Trafford, said the football legend could continue playing into his mid-40s.
“I don’t think you can write him off,” Simpson told GOAL. “As long as he’s scoring goals and avoids injuries, it wouldn’t surprise me if he hits 1,000 goals. I know he wants that — and he also wants to play with his son.”
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Ronaldo has openly expressed his dream of sharing the pitch with his eldest son, Cristiano Jr., who is now 14 and plays for Al-Nassr’s youth team. “When I was his age, he is a little bit bigger and stronger,” Ronaldo said proudly. “I think he will 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, won five Champions League titles, and led Portugal to both European Championship and Nations League triumphs, his next goal is deeply personal — to stay in the game long enough to play alongside his son.
While his time in Saudi Arabia has brought individual glory, team success remains the next big target. Al-Nassr, powered by Ronaldo and compatriot João Félix, have made a strong start to the season and will be looking to extend their winning run when they face Al-Hazm this Sunday.
Even as he nears 1,000 goals, Ronaldo’s focus and hunger continue to set him apart — proof that, for one of football’s greatest icons, the pursuit of excellence never sleeps.
I learned a few tricks here that I’ll definitely use. Thanks!