According to data published by IFFHS, having played yesterday’s Saudi Cup match for Al Nassr, Ronaldo jumped to third place in the global ranking of players with the most career appearances.
The ranking only considers official matches played at senior level (not including “intermediate” levels such as under-21 and under-23) and in top-tier competitions (i.e., only first divisions).
Top-10 as of 01/11/2023:
- Rogério Ceni - 1225
- Peter Shilton - 1217
- Cristiano Ronaldo - 1192 (still active)
- Fábio Maciel - 1192 (still active)
- Roberto Carlos - 1090
- Gianluigi Buffon - 1070
- Ray Clemence - 1069
- Javier Zanetti - 1067
- Dani Alves - 1056
- Iker Casillas - 1048
EDIT: I can’t put Fábio in 3rd place, Reddit simply replaces the 3 with a 4.
He’s always been in incredible physical shape for so long that has been motivated by his need to be the best.