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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Rich Jones

Cristiano Ronaldo reveals secret to staying at the top of his game

Cristiano Ronaldo says his work ethic is key to maintaining his success at the highest level.

The Portuguese superstar bagged a stunning hat-trick to lead his country into the Nations League final with a 3-1 win over Switzerland last week.

Ronaldo, 34, remains one of the world's top players after bagging 28 goals in all competitions in his first season with Juventus .

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner reckons his dedication is the secret to his longevity at the highest level - and he reckons it will keep him going for plenty more years.

"It's the preparation – my work ethic," Ronaldo told UEFA.com .

Ronaldo reckons hard work is the secret to his longevity at the top level (Action Images via Reuters)

"I still feel good despite being 34 years of age.

"The most important thing is your head, to feel motivated and happy, and to follow my path as a player, because I think I still have a lot to give and I feel very good."

After a frustrating season at club level which saw Juventus stunned by Ajax in the Champions League, Ronaldo is eyeing Nations League glory with Portugal.

Ronaldo bagged a hat-trick for Portugal against Switzerland in midweek (FERNANDO VELUDO/EPA-EFE/REX)

They take on the Netherlands in the final on Sunday - and he says a win would make for a special treble having already won Euro 2004 and Euro 2016 with his country.

He added: "As I said, when I pull on the shirt of the national team, it's a huge honour for me and it's a different feeling than it is playing for clubs.

"It's our country: my family is Portuguese, my friends too. I grew up in Portugal, so it's special to put on the shirt of the national team.

Ronaldo is looking to lead Portugal to Nations League glory this weekend (PA)

"And obviously, the chance to fight for trophies makes it even more special – like it was in EURO 2004 and EURO 2016, and how this competition will be now.

"Three finals, as you said, and I hope to win two of the three. That would be fantastic and I have hope − so does the team.

"We are positive; we are playing at home. I hope the stadium will be great, that there will be good energy, that this energy will be transmitted to us, and that everyone can be confident, because we will try to give our best. Together, we can become champions."

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