Golf
Cristiano Ronaldo Broke World Cup Record Set by Lionel Messi 24 Hours Ago
newsweek.com
•23 June 2026, 10:01 PM

On Monday, June 22, Lionel Messi made World Cup history when he broke the World Cup goals record long held by Germany striker Miroslav Klose. Messi put home two goals against Austria to top the list with 18 goals, but his longtime counterpart in the sport of soccer managed to spoil one of his new World Cup records. In scoring two goals against Austria, Messi became the oldest player in World Cup history to score twice. That record lasted for about 24 hours before Cristiano Ronaldo stepped in.
Soccer news: Potential Christian Pulisic Replacement Responds to Injury Concerns More golf: Golfer Parts Ways With Caddie Days Before U.S. Open The 41-year-old, who received heavy criticism for his play in Portugal's opener against Congo DR, scored twice in the first half against Uzbekistan. "Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the oldest player with a multi-goal game at the men's World Cup at 41 years, 138 days," ESPN revealed. Ronaldo received backlash for his lackluster performance against Congo DR, but bounced back in a big way as Portugal cruised to a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
"He's an example," Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said Monday, defending Ronaldo. "He's been playing for his country for a long time. He wants to contribute, and he's a role model for our team." Ronaldo now has 10 World Cup goals under his belt. With its win on Tuesday, Portugal now sits atop Group K, but could be passed by Columbia, which faces off against Congo DR later tonight.
More soccer: Cristiano Ronaldo Facing Criticism for What He Did During Portugal Game



