Xtra Time Web Desk: Brazilian soccer legend Pele shared his regret for not being able to hug Cristiano Ronaldo, who on Sunday reached on top of the goalscoring list in the world, getting past the Brazilian legend. Ronaldo acclaimed himself to be “top of the World’s goalscoring list” after getting a hat trick on Sunday, getting past Brazilian soccer great Pele. The 36-year-old Ronaldo hit a hat trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to take his total to 770 career goals for club and country. Pele, a three-time World Cup champion, officially scored 767 goals during his illustrious career.
“There’s no player in the World who hasn’t been raised listening to stories about his (Pele’s) games, his goals and his achievements, and I’m no exception,” Ronaldo wrote in a lengthy post on Instagram.
“And for that reason, I’m filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that put’s me on top of the World’s goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira.”
Pele too shared his admiration for Ronaldo in an instgram post. He wrote, “I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches.”
“My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today. But I leave this photo in your honor, with great affection, as the symbol of a friendship that has existed for many years.”
“Cristiano life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having!”
Ronaldo has scored 668 club goals — five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 102 goals for Portugal.