Cristiano Ronaldo’s Post-COVID Return Strengthens Case For ‘GOAT’ Status

Among all the legendary accomplishments of Cristiano Ronaldo, he can now add the feat of conquering the coronavirus to the list.

The Portuguese superstar was unstoppable in Juventus’ 4-1 drubbing of Spezia on Sunday in his return to Serie A action.

English journalist Piers Morgan showered Ronaldo’s performance with reverence, believing that the 35-year-old is worthy enough to be called as “GOAT” or greatest of all time.

“Took Cristiano three minutes to score in his post-covid comeback game today. Then he scored again in a 4-1 Juventus win. He’s 35. This is my regular reminder that he’s also The GOAT,” Morgan wrote.

Ronaldo displayed his unmatched athleticism in his comeback. He missed a total of four games after testing positive for COVID-19 while on duty for the Portugal national team.

The matches he did not play include the heavily-anticipated UEFA Champions League contest against La Liga's FC Barcelona, which could have pitted Ronaldo against Messi for the first time in two years.

With the football luminary testing negative for the virus last weekend, he was cleared to suit up for the Old Lady once again.

He entered the match as a substitute, replacing Paulo Dybala in the second half. Ronaldo scored within just three minutes of play, and since then, Juventus never looked back.

He completed the brace in the penalty box at the 76th minute to seal his second goal of the evening.

“Happy to be back and help the team with two goals!” Ronaldo tweeted after the match.

In his post-game interview, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was happy to be in good shape for his return to action.

“I have been stationary. I had no symptoms and I felt good. Today I went back to doing what I like: playing football,” Ronaldo told Sky Sports.

Ronaldo and Juventus are set to square off with Ferencvaros on Wednesday in the Champions League.