Cristiano Ronaldo says he was better than Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe last year and makes bold Saudi league claim

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared himself as 'the best goalscorer' this season after being crowned as top scorer in the senior leagues last year.

The Al-Nassr star picked up the award at the 2023 Globe Soccer Awards where he was recognised for his stunning goalscoring record in Saudi Arabia.

Since joining the club last January, Ronaldo scored a staggering 54 goals in 59 games for Al-Nassr.

That tally was more than Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland who managed 52 goals, 52 goals and 50 goals respectively.

Of course there's an argument to say that the mentioned trio can feel harshly treated due to their goals being scored in three of Europe's top five leagues, but Ronaldo was clearly delighted with his tally, particularly given that he's nearing the end of his career.

Speaking at the awards, Ronaldo said: "I was the best goalscorer this season.

"Imagine beating young animals like Haaland… I’m proud. And I’ll be 39 soon!

“I like when people doubt me again and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism.”

Ronaldo then discussed the Saudi Pro League and stated his belief that it was, in fact, stronger than France's Ligue 1.

He said: "To be honest, I think the Saudi league is not worse than the French league, in my opinion.

"In the French league, I think you have two or three teams who are a good level. In Saudi, I think it is more competitive.

“They can say whatever they want it is just opinion.

"I have played here for one year so I know what I am talking about. But, I think right now we are better than the French league.”