Cristiano Ronaldo has described himself as the 'best goalscorer' in world football while speaking at the 2023 Globe Soccer Awards ceremony - and the comment drew a reaction out of Erling Haaland.
Ronaldo was, in fact, the top goalscorer in the world's top divisions during 2023, ending the year with 54 goals for Al Nassr and Portugal.
He beat out competition from Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe, who both got 52, while Haaland netted 50 for City and Norway.
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But the reigning Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League winner missed the last seven games of the year through injury, meaning he surely would have had a realistic chance of beating Ronaldo's 54 if fully fit.
Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards, which celebrates the top players and footballing figures of the previous 12 months, Ronaldo reminded everyone of his record.
He said: "I was the best goalscorer. I had to beat the young lions, like Haaland for example, so I'm proud."
While the 38-year-old said his comment with a laugh at the end, the cameras then cut to Haaland - who had a deadpan look.
He did then produce a smirk, though, with Ronaldo adding: "And I still look good, so I'm proud."
The awards, which are being announced at a ceremony in Dubai, sees Ronaldo featured a nominee in a number of different categories.
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According to Globe Soccer's official website, Ronaldo and Lionel Messi dominated the first round of public voting for the Best Men's Player award.
Ronaldo is also on the shortlist for Fans' Favourite Player, whilst he is also among the leading names in contention to win the all-new Best Middle East Player award.
The Al Nassr star did miss out on a nomination for The Best FIFA Men's Player award, which was won by Lionel Messi earlier this week.
Ronaldo also missed out on a nomination for the 2023 Ballon d'Or despite his incredible goalscoring numbers - the first time since 2003 that he was not on the final shortlist.
Featured Image Credit: Globe Soccer AwardsTopics: Al Nassr, Champions League, Cristiano Ronaldo, Erling Haaland, Football, Manchester City, Fan Reactions
