Ronaldo

Ronaldo Nazário is a Brazilian retired professional footballer, born on September 18, 1976, in Rio de Janeiro. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history. Ronaldo began his professional career with Cruzeiro before moving to PSV Eindhoven in 1994, where he demonstrated his incredible goal-scoring ability.

Ronaldo is known for his blistering speed, dribbling, strength, and goal-scoring prowess. He has won numerous individual awards, including three FIFA World Player of the Year titles, and holds multiple records, such as being the second highest goal scorer in World Cup history.

Off the field, Ronaldo is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Cruzeiro

• Youth and Early Career: Ronaldo was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro and started his career with Cruzeiro, where he scored 44 goals in 47 appearances.

PSV Eindhoven

• Early Success: Ronaldo signed with PSV Eindhoven in 1994. Despite suffering from injuries, he managed to score 42 goals in 46 appearances.

Barcelona

• Record-breaking Transfer: In 1996, Ronaldo transferred to Barcelona for what was then a world-record fee. During his single season at the club, he scored 47 goals in 49 games and won the FIFA World Player of the Year.

Inter Milan

• Serie A Success: Ronaldo joined Inter Milan in 1997, where he spent five seasons, scoring 59 goals in 99 appearances.

Real Madrid

• Galactico Era: In 2002, Ronaldo joined Real Madrid, as part of the Galacticos era. Despite injury struggles, he managed to score 104 goals in 177 appearances over five seasons.

AC Milan and Corinthians

• Late Career: Ronaldo had brief spells with AC Milan and Corinthians towards the end of his career, before retiring in 2011.

Brazil National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Brazil in 1994.

Achievements:

• FIFA World Cup: Winner in 1994 and 2002.
• Copa America: Winner in 1997 and 1999.
• Ronaldo is Brazil's second highest goal scorer and one of the highest goal scorers in World Cup history.

• Position: Primarily a striker.
• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, dribbling skills, clinical finishing, and strength. Ronaldo was celebrated for his versatility, powerful shots, and heading ability.

• Family: Ronaldo has four children. He was married to Milene Domingues and later to Maria Beatriz Antony.
• Philanthropy: Ronaldo is involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to children's hospitals, cancer research, and disaster relief efforts.

• Ronaldo Nazário is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional football. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Goals in a Single Season for Barcelona:

• 47 goals

Most Goals for Real Madrid:

• 104 goals

Most Goals in World Cups:

• 15 goals

Most Appearances and Goals for Brazil:

• Second highest scorer

Books

• Ronaldo: The Obsession for Perfection by Luca Caioli
• Ronaldo: The Journey of a Genius by James Mosley

Websites

• FIFA: Information about Ronaldo Nazário’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Real Madrid: Details about Ronaldo’s career at Real Madrid. Available at: https://www.realmadrid.com
• UEFA: Updates and records of Ronaldo in UEFA competitions. Available at: https://www.uefa.com

Interviews and Documentaries

• Ronaldo (2015): Directed by Anthony Wonke. This documentary provides a detailed look at Ronaldo’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Ronaldo Nazário, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com