On July 29, 2009, Cristiano Ronaldo officially began his Real Madrid journey after completing a then world-record transfer from Manchester United. Over the next nine seasons, he rewrote football history at the Santiago Bernabéu, scoring a staggering 450 goals in 438 appearances, and becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer. His journey was full of spectacular moments, breathtaking performances, and matches that defined an era for both player and club.
Here are ten of Cristiano Ronaldo’s most memorable matches for Real Madrid:
1. Debut Goal vs Deportivo La Coruña (August 29, 2009)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s competitive debut for Real Madrid came with high expectations. Against Deportivo, he coolly converted a penalty, marking the start of his goal-scoring spree. It was a glimpse of what was to come — a relentless goal machine in white.
2. Hat-trick vs Mallorca (May 5, 2010)
In his first season, Ronaldo showcased his killer instinct with a hat-trick against Mallorca. Though Madrid didn’t win the league, Ronaldo’s performance confirmed he could carry the team’s attacking hopes.
3. Copa del Rey Final vs Barcelona (April 20, 2011)
This was the night Ronaldo delivered Madrid its first major trophy in four years. In extra time of El Clásico, he rose above defenders to head home Ángel Di María’s cross. That iconic 103rd-minute goal secured the Copa del Rey and became a turning point in his rivalry with Lionel Messi.
4. Four Goals vs Sevilla (May 7, 2011)
Ronaldo destroyed Sevilla with four goals in one match, showcasing his power, speed, and precision. Performances like this made him unstoppable and sent a warning to every La Liga defense.
5. La Liga Decider vs Barcelona (April 21, 2012)
In the 2011-12 season, Madrid needed to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou to secure La Liga. Ronaldo stepped up, scoring the decisive goal and famously silencing the crowd with his “Calma, calma” celebration. Madrid went on to win the league with a record 100 points.
6. Champions League Semifinal vs Bayern Munich (April 25, 2012)
Though Madrid lost on penalties, Ronaldo’s two early goals against Bayern showed his ability to rise on the biggest European nights. His hunger to deliver in the Champions League only grew stronger from this point.
7. Five Goals vs Granada (April 5, 2015)
One of his most ruthless displays, Ronaldo scored five goals in a single match — the first of his career. The 9-1 win over Granada highlighted his insatiable desire to break records and leave defenders helpless.
8. Champions League Final vs Atlético Madrid (May 24, 2014)
Ronaldo scored Madrid’s fourth goal in extra time of the 2014 final, completing the famous “La Décima” — Real Madrid’s 10th European Cup. His emotional shirtless celebration showed what it meant to him and the fans.
9. Hat-trick vs Atlético Madrid (May 2, 2017)
In the Champions League semifinal first leg, Ronaldo destroyed Atlético with a hat-trick. His positioning and lethal finishing dismantled one of Europe’s best defenses, securing Madrid’s place in yet another final.
10. Bicycle Kick vs Juventus (April 3, 2018)
Perhaps his greatest ever Champions League goal, Ronaldo stunned the world with a bicycle kick in Turin. Even Juventus fans gave him a standing ovation. That goal symbolized his legendary status and cemented his reputation as one of football’s greatest performers.
Legacy at Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo’s nine seasons with Real Madrid were filled with four Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns, two Copa del Rey trophies, and countless individual awards. More than trophies and records, he gave Madridista fans memories that will last forever.
As his journey with Real Madrid began on this day back in 2009, fans look back at his glittering spell with nothing but admiration. Ronaldo wasn’t just a player for Madrid — he became a legend, an icon, and the embodiment of the club’s famous motto: “Hala Madrid… y nada más.”