Brazilian Icon Shatters Records While Cristiano Ronaldo Falls Behind in Historic Chase
Fluminense's seasoned shot-stopper Fábio has been recognized as the footballer with the most career appearances in the sport's history following his 1,391st professional match.
The backdrop for a round of 16 clash in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana—South America's counterpart to the UEFA Europa League—featuring Fluminense against Colombian side América de Cali received additional prestige and spectacle through Fábio's record-breaking achievement.
At the iconic Maracaña stadium where Pelé netted his legendary 1,000th career goal—though it might have actually been his 1,001st—Fábio created his own historical moment at the other end of the field. The 44-year-old keeper eclipsed the 1,390 matches attributed to former England international Peter Shilton.
The famously candid two-time European Cup champion actually maintains that he 'merely' participated in 1,387 competitive fixtures. However, this figure still secures him the runner-up position in the all-time appearances ranking. Cristiano Ronaldo occupies third place with 1,284 matches under his belt, trailing Fábio by just over 100 games.
All-Time Appearance Makers in Soccer History
Player | Career Appearances |
|---|---|
1. Fábio | 1,391 |
2. Peter Shilton | 1,390 |
3. Cristiano Ronaldo | 1,284 |
4. Rogério Ceni | 1,265 |
5. František Plánička | 1,187 |
Data courtesy of Fluminense. Accurate as of Aug. 20, 2025.
Although Ronaldo reached 40 in February, he has maintained approximately 30 appearances per campaign with Al Nassr. At this pace, he would need to continue playing past his recently signed two-year extension from this summer, assuming Fábio plans to retire soon. Which he doesn't.
The emotional veteran began his journey at União Bandeirante before establishing himself at Vasco da Gama. Most of Fábio's career matches were accumulated while representing Cruzeiro before joining Fluminense at age 41 in 2022. The Copa Libertadores champion, who also broke Gianluigi Buffon's clean sheet record of 507 at the Club World Cup this year, extended his deal in May, keeping him at the club through December 2026.
"I can only express gratitude to God, who enabled me to witness this extraordinary moment, to achieve this monumental milestone," the emotional goalkeeper shared after the match. "It was deeply moving, particularly having my loved ones present during the celebrations.
"It's immensely fulfilling to establish this record while wearing the Fluminense shirt, which provided me with opportunities. Now it's about continuing to compete and pursuing fresh accomplishments with each fixture."