Free kicks have long been a point of contention in the ongoing debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, particularly when considering goals scored directly from set-piece situations. Interestingly, despite their legendary statuses, both players still have some way to go before being hailed as the greatest free kick takers of all time. Wintips has taken a closer look at the record books and tracked down the seven players who have scored the most free kick goals in football history to see where these two GOATs rank.
Top 7 players with the most free kick goals in football history
7. Cristiano Ronaldo (64 goals)
At number seven on the list is Cristiano Ronaldo, with 64 free kick goals. Although the 39-year-old is no longer as prolific as he once was, he was undoubtedly one of the most formidable free kick specialists during his prime. In particular, Ronaldo perfected the knuckleball technique, especially in the later stages of his career at Manchester United. His iconic free kick against Portsmouth in 2008 remains one of the most memorable moments of his career, showcasing the immense talent he possessed in dead-ball situations.
Despite entering the twilight of his career, he still manages to score some impressive free kicks. In 2024, he scored three goals from direct free kicks, which is a remarkable feat. This shows that his free-kick ability is still formidable, although not as good as it once was in his prime.
6. David Beckham (65 goals)
David Beckham, known for his off-field prominence and global fame, sometimes causes people to overlook his outstanding talent on the field. Throughout his illustrious career, he has won numerous major trophies with renowned clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and PSG. His contributions, particularly his skillful free-kick ability, have helped his teams overcome numerous challenges and achieve significant victories.
David Beckham's influence on football extends far beyond his role as a global icon. He is most famously remembered for taking the legendary corner kick that helped Manchester United clinch victory in the 1999 Champions League final, a moment that will forever be etched in football history. But Beckham's brilliance wasn't limited to his club career—he also made a lasting impact with England, most notably with his crucial free-kick against Greece in the 2002 World Cup qualifiers. This remarkable goal helped secure England's spot in the tournament, further cementing Beckham's legacy. His exquisite free kicks became his trademark, showcasing his immense talent and proving that he was not just a star off the field, but also a footballing genius adored by fans around the world.
5. Lionel Messi (65 goals)
Lionel Messi, the World Cup winner, has continued to add to his remarkable free-kick tally, now standing at 65 goals. Messi’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has not only transformed the sport in the United States but also drawn a new generation of fans to the game. His arrival in the MLS marked a new era for American soccer, with many embracing the sport for the first time. Despite being on a new continent, Messi has continued to dazzle, racking up impressive records, particularly with his free-kicks—an area where his natural talent continues to shine.
The Argentine magician has scored many stunning free kicks throughout his career, contributing to numerous titles and records. Messi is not only the top scorer in La Liga history but also ranks among the six highest scorers of all time. He is tied with the legendary David Beckham, who is also known for his exceptional free kick ability. Messi has proven that his talent transcends borders, significantly influencing American soccer.
4. Victor Legrotaglie (66 goals)
Victor Legrotaglie, an Argentine midfielder, had a remarkable football career, spending his entire time at local club Gimnasia y Esgrima, despite lucrative offers from big clubs. He became an icon in Mendoza, where fans admired and respected him not only for his talent but also for his loyalty to the club.
With his exceptional technical ability and pinpoint free-kicks, Legrotaglie caught the eye of some of the world's most prestigious clubs, including Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Despite receiving numerous offers from top-tier teams, he chose to remain with Gimnasia, a decision that showcased not only his loyalty but also his simple, grounded lifestyle. By staying with his team and honoring his commitment to his hometown, Legrotaglie displayed a rare and admirable sense of long-term dedication, a value that is increasingly rare in modern football. This act of loyalty continues to be seen as a remarkable feat, one that stands out in a world driven by financial incentives and transfer rumors.
3. Ronaldinho (68 goals)
Ronaldinho's name is synonymous with magical moments on the pitch rather than just his statistics or goal tally. Famous for his mesmerizing footwork, incredible dribbling skills, and eye-catching shots, the Brazilian winger left fans in awe throughout his career at clubs like Barcelona, AC Milan, and Gremio. Ronaldinho, with 68 goals to his name, was not just a player, but a living spectacle of creativity and flair, forever etched in football history for his unforgettable contributions to the game.
Ronaldinho’s ability to take free kicks from distance was one of the highlights of his career. His beautiful and unpredictable free kicks not only helped him score goals but also created unforgettable moments for fans. From curling shots over the wall to exquisite free kicks into the far corner, Ronaldinho proved himself a master of dead-ball situations, cementing his great legacy in football history.
2. Pele (70 goals)
Regarded by many as the greatest player of all time, Pele had a huge impact on Brazilian football and earned his place in history on the pitch. A record three-time World Cup winner (1958, 1962, and 1970), Pele proved his brilliance at the international level, scoring 1,279 goals in 1,363 matches, as recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. While this goal tally is somewhat controversial, it is undeniable that he is one of the greatest players in football history.
Pele, widely known as "O Rei" (The King), truly defined free-kick mastery during his legendary career. His ability to score from any angle was nothing short of remarkable, and he consistently delivered stunning goals from free-kick situations. Whether playing for Brazil, Santos, or New York Cosmos, Pele accumulated an impressive 70 goals, showcasing his precision and creativity. His free-kicks were a blend of sophistication and technical brilliance, a testament to his immense talent and lasting impact on world football.
1. Juninho (77 goals)
Juninho stands out as one of the greatest free-kick specialists in football history. With 77 free-kick goals to his name, Juninho's mastery over the dead ball is unrivaled. His shooting technique allows him to execute an array of free-kicks, from powerful long-range strikes to delicate shots that glide effortlessly over the wall. Known for his unique and mesmerizing style, Juninho’s free kicks consistently left fans in awe, earning him a well-deserved place in the annals of football greatness.
The former Brazil international has made a lasting impression at famous clubs such as Vasco da Gama and Lyon, where he shone with his impressive free kicks. Juninho is loved and revered by football fans all over the planet for his "crazy" free-kick ability, which is impossible to predict. He is famous not only for his excellent technique but also for scoring in seemingly impossible situations.
Conclusion
The record for the most free kick goals in football history stands as a testament to the talent and creativity of great players. Names like Juninho, Pele, Ronaldinho, and Messi have left their mark not only with powerful shots but also with their ability to execute subtle and unpredictable free kicks. These players have not only captivated fans with their beautiful free kicks but also changed the way they view free kicks in football. With their technique, precision, and creativity, they have created legendary moments, elevating free kicks from a mere part of the game to a true art.
See more: Top assist all time: The greatest creative players in football history
