Football Star Cristiano Ronaldo Wins Best Middle East Player of 2025

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The Unstoppable Legend: CR7 Secures Hat-Trick of Awards at the 2025 Globe Soccer Gala in Dubai

In a star-studded gala at the Atlantis The Royal hotel, Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo was once again crowned the Best Middle East Player at the 16th edition of the Globe Soccer Awards.

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The 40-year-old Al-Nassr forward secured the prestigious trophy on Sunday, December 28, 2025, marking his third consecutive win since the award's inception in 2023. Ronaldo edged out a formidable list of regional stars, including Al-Ittihad’s Karim Benzema, Al-Ahli’s Riyad Mahrez, and Al-Hilal’s Saudi sensation Salem Al-Dawsari.

A Regional Powerhouse

The award, determined by a combination of public fan votes and a specialized jury of football icons, highlights Ronaldo’s continued dominance in the Saudi Pro League. Since joining Al-Nassr, he has not only netted over 110 goals in 125 appearances but has also been instrumental in elevating the league’s global profile.

Despite his age, Ronaldo’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, scoring 40 goals since his birthday in February. His relentless drive has kept Al-Nassr at the top of the league standings for much of the season.

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The "1,000 Goal" Mission

Accepting the award on stage, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed his deep affection for Dubai and his unwavering motivation to reach his next massive milestone.

"My passion is high and I want to continue," Ronaldo told the audience. "You know what my goal is. I want to reach that number—1,000 goals—that you all know. I will reach it for sure, if I stay healthy."

As of late December 2025, his career tally stands at approximately 956 goals for club and country. With his sights set on the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, the legend shows no signs of hanging up his boots.

The 2025 Globe Soccer Winners

While Ronaldo dominated the Middle Eastern category, the night saw other global stars honored:

  • Best Men’s Player: Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)

  • Best Women’s Player: Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona)

  • Best Men’s Club: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

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  • Best Forward & Maradona Award: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

  • Best Emerging Player: Désiré Doué (PSG)

  • Career Achievement Award: Andrés Iniesta and Hidetoshi Nakata

Organized by the Dubai Sports Council, the Globe Soccer Awards remain a cornerstone of Dubai's sporting calendar, attracting the world’s elite to celebrate the best in the beautiful game.