The Race to 1,000 Goals: Roberto Carlos Clarifies Cristiano Ronaldo’s Place in History

 

​In the world of football, few milestones carry as much weight as the legendary 1,000-goal mark. As Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo edges closer to this astronomical figure, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has weighed in on the debate, offering both a reality check and a glowing endorsement. In a recent interview that has sparked conversation across the sports world, Carlos clarified that while Ronaldo is on the verge of history, he will not be the first player to achieve the feat. According to the Brazilian icon, that honor remains firmly with the legendary Pelé.

​Pele vs. Ronaldo: The 1,000-Goal Debate Rejuvenated

​For decades, the claim of having scored 1,000 goals has been synonymous with the "King of Football," Pelé. While modern data often focuses exclusively on "official" competitive matches, the Brazilian footballing tradition—and many historians—insist that Pelé's total career tally, including friendlies and tour matches which were highly competitive at the time, must be recognized.

​Roberto Carlos, speaking to O Jogo, was adamant about protecting his countryman’s legacy. “The only player who ever scored 1,000 goals was Pelé, but Cristiano might be able to join that group,” Carlos stated. For Carlos, the distinction is clear: Ronaldo is not breaking a new frontier, but rather attempting to enter an ultra-exclusive club that has, until now, had only one member.

​The Countdown: How Close is Cristiano Ronaldo?

​As of February 12, 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo’s official goal tally stands at a staggering 961 goals. Having recently turned 41, the Al-Nassr forward shows no signs of slowing down. To reach the 1,000-goal milestone, Ronaldo needs just 39 more goals—a target that many believe he could hit before the end of the 2026 calendar year, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon.

​Ronaldo’s pursuit is fueled by a level of physical maintenance that Carlos described as exemplary. "I’m absolutely certain he’ll reach that milestone. He never gets injured," Carlos noted. This durability has allowed Ronaldo to maintain a prolific strike rate in the Saudi Pro League and for the Portugal national team, even at an age when most strikers have long since retired.

​"Never Stop": Roberto Carlos’ Emotional Plea to the GOAT

​Beyond the statistics, Roberto Carlos expressed a deep admiration for Ronaldo’s influence on the next generation. He even joked about taking extreme measures to ensure the Portuguese star stays on the pitch. “Cristiano can’t stop, ever. If he ever decides to stop playing, I’ll call him and tell him not to stop,” the 2002 World Cup winner quipped.

​Carlos’ message was clear: Ronaldo’s presence is vital for the "soccer ecosystem." He famously added that Ronaldo should continue playing "even if he can only use one leg or has to crawl to move," because of the energy and inspiration he provides to young boys starting their football journeys. This sentiment underscores Ronaldo's shift from being merely a goal-scorer to becoming a global symbol of professionalism and longevity.

​The 2026 World Cup: The Ultimate Stage for the Milestone?

​With Portugal virtually certain to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, the stage is set for a historic narrative. Imagine a scenario where Ronaldo scores his 1,000th goal during a World Cup match—it would be a moment of unparalleled sporting drama.

​Roberto Carlos even dared to dream of a Portugal vs. Brazil World Cup final. "It would be beautiful. It’s never happened, but there’s always a first time," he said. In such a matchup, the debate over the 1,000-goal record would likely reach a fever pitch, pitting the legacy of the Brazilian "King" against the modern-day "CR7."

​Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Numbers

​Whether or not you agree with Roberto Carlos regarding Pelé’s "first" status, there is no denying that we are witnessing something unique in Cristiano Ronaldo. He is not just chasing a number; he is redefining the biological limits of a professional athlete. As Carlos aptly put it, Ronaldo is "making history and breaking records" every time he steps onto the pitch. Whether he is the first or the second to hit 1,000, his place in the pantheon of footballing gods is secure.