Did Scott McTominay’s Overhead Kick Shatter Cristiano Ronaldo's Record?

In a moment of brilliance that has reverberated throughout the football world, Scott McTominay scored a stunning overhead kick for Scotland against Denmark in a recent World Cup qualifier. The goal, which came in the opening minutes of the crucial match, not only set Scotland on their way to a 4-2 victory, securing their place at the 2026 World Cup, but also sparked a debate: Did McTominay surpass Cristiano Ronaldo's famous overhead kick record?.

The comparisons stem from the incredible height McTominay reached to connect with the ball. Initial reports and fan calculations suggest that McTominay struck the ball at a height of 2.53 meters (8ft 3in). This measurement, if accurate, would place his goal a significant 18 centimeters higher than Cristiano Ronaldo's iconic overhead kick against Juventus in the 2017/18 Champions League quarter-final, where Ronaldo connected at 2.35 meters.

Ronaldo's overhead kick against Juventus has long been considered one of the most impressive displays of athleticism and timing in football history. The goal was so remarkable that it earned him a standing ovation from the Juventus fans, an uncommon occurrence for an opposing player. The strike was a perfect blend of timing, power, and accuracy, leaving spectators in awe.

McTominay's goal has ignited similar reactions, with fans and pundits alike praising the Scottish midfielder's athleticism and technique. Scotland manager Steve Clarke called it "the best overhead kick I've ever seen". Some fans have even drawn comparisons to basketball legend Michael Jordan, noting the sheer height of McTominay's leap.

Scott McTominay, a midfielder for Serie A club Napoli and the Scotland national team, has been in impressive form. In the 2024-25 season, he won the Serie A title with Napoli and was named the league's Most Valuable Player. He has also scored crucial goals for Napoli in the 2025-26 season, including a goal against Inter Milan that was later credited as the Serie A Goal of the Month. In 13 games in 2025/2026, McTominay has scored 4 goals and made 1 assist.

While the comparisons to Ronaldo are inevitable, it's important to note the differences between the two goals. Ronaldo's goal was in the Champions League against Juventus, while McTominay's was in a World Cup qualifier against Denmark. Both goals were crucial for their respective teams, but the context and stakes were different.

Moreover, the measurement of McTominay's leap is based on initial calculations and reports. While these estimates suggest that he surpassed Ronaldo's height, further analysis and official measurements would be needed to definitively confirm this.

Regardless of whether McTominay's overhead kick officially surpasses Ronaldo's record, the goal will be remembered as a special moment in Scottish football history. It was a goal that not only secured Scotland's place at the World Cup for the first time since 1998, but also showcased McTominay's incredible athleticism and technique.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Scott McTominay has etched his name into football folklore with a goal that will be replayed and admired for years to come. Whether it broke a record or not, it was a goal worthy of comparison to one of the greatest players of all time.