In a glittering ceremony that brought together the world’s biggest football stars, Cristiano Ronaldo was tonight named Best Middle East Player at the prestigious 2025 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai. The 40-year-old Portuguese icon, now starring for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, added yet another accolade to his historic career at the 16th edition of football’s high-profile awards gala.
The award was presented amid fanfare at the Atlantis The Royal hotel, an ultra-luxury venue on the Dubai coastline filled with football royalty, club presidents, and global sporting personalities. Ronaldo, who has been a dominant force in the Middle Eastern game since his move in 2023, was honoured for his ongoing excellence both on and off the pitch — further cementing his influence in the region’s football culture.
A Season of Continued Success
Ronaldo arrived at the awards fresh off another standout year with Al-Nassr, leading the Saudi Pro League table and contributing decisively to his team’s stunning unbeaten start. His goalscoring form has been electric, with recent performances — including a brace that contributed to a tenth straight league win — spotlighting his enduring quality.
Off the pitch, Ronaldo’s presence in the Middle East has helped raise the global profile of the league, drawing international attention through consistent media coverage, record attendance, and unprecedented fan engagement. This regional impact was a key factor in his winning the Best Middle East Player award ahead of strong contenders such as Karim Benzema, Riyad Mahrez, and Salem Al-Dawsari.
Historic Legacy, Fresh Ambitions
Speaking from the stage after receiving the honour, Ronaldo was characteristically focused on the future. “This is one of my favourite awards because it celebrates football across this booming region. My goal is always to score more goals, help my team win, and push myself further,” he said to applause.
The forward also touched on his long-standing personal milestone — the pursuit of 1,000 career goals, a landmark few have approached. With over 950 official goals to his name and still adding to his tally in both domestic and international competitions, Ronaldo reiterated his confidence, saying: “I will reach 1,000 goals… if I stay healthy.”
Part of Bigger Night for Football
Ronaldo’s award was one of many handed out at the Globe Soccer Awards. Ousmane Dembélé claimed the Best Men’s Player of the Year title, while stars such as Aitana Bonmatí, Lamine Yamal, and other world-class talents were also recognised for their contributions to the sport in 2025.
The Globe Soccer Awards — one of football’s most anticipated year-end events — not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the expanding global footprint of the sport, acknowledging both established icons and rising stars across continents.
As the evening closed, Ronaldo’s latest honour stood as a testament to his unmatched longevity, influence in the Middle East, and unyielding commitment to excellence — even as he continues to shape football history well into his 40s.
