Cristiano
Ronaldo celebrated becoming Real Madrid's top goalscorer of all time at a
ceremony at the Santiago Bernabeu, with all his team-mates present to support
his achievements as the Portuguese superstar admitted he had been a 'bit of a
b******' with the media.
The likes of
Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Marcelo watched on and applauded the 30-year-old
Portuguese star, as well as his mother, son, and agent Jorge Mendes.
Although
official records state he is only level with club legend Raul, on 323 goals,
Ronaldo himself believes, along with the club and Spanish newspaper Marca, that
he scored his 324th against Malmo in the Champions League on Wednesday, thereby
breaking the record.
The disputed
goal was a strike against Real Sociedad in 2010, which hit his team-mate Pepe
and looped into the net.
Pepe
generously said Cristiano should have been awarded the goal at the time, and
the centre back was present and correct at the ceremony, sitting in the front
row in an eye-catching, skin-tight leather jacket.
President
Florentino Perez gave an opening speech, before Ronaldo delivered one of his
own, followed by a posed photo with his team-mates who joined him on the stage.
They left, before Ronaldo posed for more photos with his family on a stage decorated with all the trophies he has won as a Real Madrid player, including his three Ballon d'Ors.
He then
walked out of the room with his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr in tow as he was
again applauded the the assembled group.
He said: 'For
me it's an honour to receive this prize. I never would have imagined when I
wore this shirt for the first time I would be the highest goalscorer in the
team's history, that I would beat my friend Raul, and the late Alfredo di
Stefano.
'I'm very
happy. In the first place I would like to thank my team-mates, because without
them, this never would have been possible.
'I'd also
like to thank my coaches. Pellegrini, Mourinho, (Carlo) Ancelotti and Rafa
Benitez. They have always helped me in my career. To the foundation, the staff
and the physios.
'If I have
forgotten anyone I ask for forgiveness, because this isn't an easy moment for
me to speak.
The president
explained: 'Today one of our own has conquered a horizon that seemed
impossible. Since arriving in 2009 his dedication and commitment has always
been beyond doubt. He has always fought to win.
'Real Madrid
fans adore and truly love you. You are an example for all those who love
football, inside and out, and for all who want to break into the sport.
'With your
numbers you have surpassed all the great players of Madrid. Your name is
already a legend at Real Madrid.
'Congratulations,
Cristiano, because the best player in the world has become Real Madrid's top
scorer of all time.'
More photos.
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