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Cristiano Ronaldo
When we look at longevity, consistency and the ability to perform at the very highest level, Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the clearest examples — and his recent nominations for the FIFPRO World XI are simply the latest proof of it.
A remarkable nomination streak at advanced age
Ronaldo, born on 5 February 1985, turned 39 in February 2024 and 40 in February 2025.
In December 2024, he was included in the 26-man shortlist for the FIFPRO Men’s World XI while aged 39 and playing outside of Europe (at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia) — making him one of the very few to sustain such recognition at that age. (Arab News)
Then again in 2025 (while approaching or at age 40/41), he was listed among nominations for the next iteration of the award. (Fox Sports)
That he has achieved nomination in consecutive years while nearing or crossing 40 is exceptional in elite football — where most players either retire or drop below the radar of the very top honours.
It speaks to his sustained standard, his professional approach, and the respect he still commands.
Why this is significant
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Age and performance rarely align in football at this level
Football is, by nature, a young-man’s game: speed, intensity, recovery, and match-sharpness tend to decline with age.
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Yet Ronaldo has defied many of these expectations by continuing to score goals, maintain fitness and remain a central figure at club and country.
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For example, retrospective data on his physical decline show some drop, but his adaptation (smart positioning, finishing, versatility) has compensated. (Outlook India)
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Global peer recognition
The FIFPRO World XI nomination is voted on by professional players across many countries, which means his inclusion isn’t just media hype but recognition from fellow professionals.
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The fact he was among the only non-European club players on the shortlist in December 2024 (alongside Lionel Messi) emphasises his standing. (Daily Sabah)
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Consistency over decades
Ronaldo’s first nominations for such global teams came many years ago, and to still be in the conversation shows extraordinary durability.
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Whether one considers 20-year career arcs, this still stands out.
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Breaking stereotypes about older players
Many observers assume that once a player is in their late 30s, their best days are behind them. Ronaldo challenges that narrative.
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By being nominated while 39 and 40, he is charting a path that few have followed.
Context of his career at 39–40
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In 2024 and 2025, Ronaldo was playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, having left the top tiers of European club football.
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That he still attracted nominations while playing outside the traditional European power leagues (England, Spain, Germany, France, Italy) adds another layer to the feat. (Fox Sports)
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His role for the Portugal national team also remained relevant — with him contributing goals, leading the squad and remaining part of the elite international stage. (Outlook India)
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On the psychological and professional front, Ronaldo’s work ethic, discipline and self-management are widely noted — all of which arguably help sustain his high-level performance at an age when many others decline. (Business Standard)
Why “first in history” is credible (and why caveats matter)
Claiming he is the first player in history to be nominated for the FIFPRO World XI for two consecutive years at ages 39 and 40 carries weight because of how rare such events are.
The combination of: (i) being 39 in one year, (ii) then 40 the next, (iii) being nominated both years, and (iv) doing so while still performing at a level recognised globally — that combination is exceedingly unusual.
Nevertheless, one must note that official lists sometimes vary: nominations can be referred to as “shortlists” and while being nominated is different from being selected into the final XI, the recognition is still significant.
The available reporting shows Ronaldo was nominated at 39 (2024 shortlist) and entered the 2025 shortlist approaching/at 40. (Fox Sports)
Broader implications
Ronaldo’s achievement shifts the narrative around elite athletic ageing in football.
It suggests that—with the right training, mindset, nutrition, adaptation of game style—players can maintain an elite-level presence beyond what was traditionally considered “normal”.
For younger players coming through, it shows one can plan for long careers and still make an impact late into their 30s.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s nominations for the FIFPRO World XI at age 39 and again around age 40 represent not just personal milestones but broader milestones for what is possible in football.
They underscore how his career continues to evolve, defying age-related decline and reinforcing his legacy as one of the sport’s true greats.
