The Portuguese goal machine spared the European champions embarrassment against Japanese side Kashima Antlers, who took a 2-1 lead before Ronaldo fired in three goals to claim a 4-2 win after extra time.
Ronaldo has now scored three hat-tricks this season and six in the calendar year, with the J-League challengers the latest team to be put to the sword.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 40th hat-trick for Real Madrid as they won the Club World Cup
The Portuguese wonder claimed the Golden Ball award for being top scorer in the tournament
