The Portuguese icon made his professional debut back in 2002 but is determined to extend his career and represent his country at next summer's World Cup.

Ronaldo told Canal 11: "People, especially my family, say: 'It's time for you to stop. You've done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?'

"But I don't think so. I think I'm still producing good things, I'm helping my club and the national team, and why not keep going?

"I'm sure that when I finish, I'll be fulfilled, because I gave it my all. I know I don't have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest."

Ronaldo, 40, was honoured with the Global Prestige award by the Portuguese Football Federation – in celebration of his 223-cap international career – and thinks the accolade is a symbol of his impact on the game.

The Al-Nassr player said: "It's not an end-of-career award. I see it as recognition of years of effort, dedication, and ambition.

"I like winning, helping the younger generations, and they also help me maintain my level and continue competing. That's what excites me: competing with the younger ones. I still have a passion for this."

Some have questioned whether Ronaldo is beneficial to Portugal's cause, but his pride in playing for his country is clear.

He said: "I often say to you that if I could, I would only play football for the national team. I wouldn't play for any other club because it's the culmination and the peak of a football player.

"It's an honour for me to play for the national team."

Portugal are well-placed to reach the World Cup and Ronaldo is desperate to finally claim football's biggest prize in what would be his sixth attempt.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner said: "I'm sure the next games will go well and that we will qualify for the World Cup.

"Obviously, our goal is to go to the World Cup and win, but we have to take everything step by step."