Is 39 is the New 29? Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James Show Why They’re Still the Greatest in 2024

Some players over the years have proven that ‘age is nothing but a number’. While the sport is turning towards a new direction that favors the young and hungry, names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James have proven that they still are the measuring stick no matter the era. Despite the duo touching their forties, CR7 and King James continue to lead the charge from the front for their respective sides. The duo displayed dominance in their respective sport throughout 2023, putting up some impressive numbers to show they are far from done.

Cristiano Ronaldo had a phenomenal year throughout 2023, with the Al Nassr skipper emerging as the top scorer in the calendar year, leaving behind the likes of Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane. King James was not far behind as well, with the LA Lakers star leading the charge from the front, putting up one of the best figures while pitted against his entire side. Thus, age is just a number, after all. 

Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James continue to stand tall as measuring sticks

No one expected Cristiano to dominate 2023 as he did. While fans and analysts were critical of the player’s decision to move to the Saudi Pro League, the Al Nassr skipper silenced everyone with his performances. The Portuguese icon bagged a staggering 54 goals last year, representing his club and country emerging as the top scorer for the year.

The Portuguese star made 59 appearances throughout 2023, playing over 5184 minutes. During outings, Cristiano put up some impressive figures, registering 69 goal contributions with a goal or an assist every 75 minutes. The player also reached multiple accolades throughout the year, registering the most appearances for the Portuguese national team.

On the other hand, James had an equally impressive 2022/23 campaign, with the Lakers star averaging 28.9 points per game. The season saw LeBron make 55 appearances for his side, playing over 1954 minutes. The player ended the season on a high after being selected for his nineteenth All-Star appearance.

King James has followed things up in style this season with the star, averaging 25.2 points per game. The player is close to touching another 1000 points season with LeBron racking up 857 points to his name. Despite being in his 20th season as a pro, King James shows no signs of stopping, and it looks like he can do this for years to come.

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Cristiano and LeBron continue to age like fine wine

The duo’s dominance last season will put any youngster to shame, with the two putting up some of the best figures in their respective careers. The two have shown time and again that they still have what it takes to hang alongside some of the best-emerging stars on the planet.

However, no matter what’s next for the sporting icons this calendar year, the duo has proved that age is just an excuse. Despite touching their forties, these two continue to put up numbers like they are still in their prime. Fans will hope that the duo continues to deliver once again this season.

What are your thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James’s performance from 2023? Let us know in the comments below.

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