BERLIN (DPA)

Cristiano Ronaldo received on Thursday a special award from UEFA at the league stage draw of the Champions League on Thursday, in recognition of his record-breaking achievements in the elite event.

Ronaldo is Champions League record scorer with 140 goals from 183 appearances for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus, was top scorer in seven seasons, including a record 17 goals in 2013-14, and is the only player to score in three finals.

The 39-year-old, who now plays at Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr, was the first player to win the showcase event five times, once with United and four times with Real.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferinn said in a statement Tuesday from the European body.

"His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass.

"His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honours. Over more than two decades, he has continuously evolved and refined his game while preserving a youthful passion for scoring and celebrating goals.

"His professionalism, work ethic, dedication, and ability to shine on the grandest stage are qualities that football players everywhere should aspire to emulate."

Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he plans to end his career with current club Al-Nassr - but probably not for another two or three years.

The Portugal superstar has dashed any hopes of a return to his first club Sporting Lisbon by confirming he plans to stay in Saudi Arabia until he retires.

"I don't know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al-Nassr," Ronaldo told Portuguese channel NOW.

Ronaldo added, "I'm very happy at this club, I feel good in this country too. I'm happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue."