ronaldo biography facts

Cristiano Ronaldo Biography Facts, Childhood, Career, Life

Cristiano Ronaldo, popularly known by his nickname ‘CR7’ is a Portuguese professional football player.

He plays forward for Juventus (Italian club) and the Portugal National Team. Among the greatest of all time to have graced the football pitch, entertaining us with a unique style of play, outstanding dribbles, sensational goals and electrifying speed, Cristiano Ronaldo stands out.

The ace skipper has a penchant for scoring incredible goals while inspiring his team to victory. Ronaldo emboldens the perfect definition of winning.

We take a close look into the life of this football star who is regarded as one of the greatest players of all-time on the planet in our Cristiano Ronaldo biography facts, childhood, career and personal life.

Table of Contents

Cristiano Ronaldo Childhood & Early Life

Cristiano Ronaldo was born on February 5, 1985. He was the fourth child born to his mother, Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro and his father, Jose Dinis Aveiro in Funchal, an island of Madeira, Portugal.

His father worked as a metropolitan gardener while his mother was a cook. Ronaldo was named after then-US President Ronald Reagen.

Ronaldo has an elder brother, Hugo and older sisters, Elma and Liliana. While growing up, he and all his siblings shared a room.

Ronaldo was raised as a Catholic. He played for an amateur team, Andorinha, before being signed by Sporting CP for 1,500 Euros after a three-day trial.

Ronaldo stopped attending school so as to focus on his football career. Prior to that decision, he was expelled after throwing a chair at his teacher.

His football dreams were threatened by a racing heart condition, but after undergoing surgery he resumed playing.

Cristiano Ronaldo Club Career

Sporting cp (2002–2003).

Ronaldo earned his place in the youth team of Sporting CP at the age of 16, after he was promoted by the first-team manager.

Ronaldo became the first sporting CP player to play in the under-16, under-17, under-18, B-team and first team in a season.

Ronaldo’s representative spoke with then-Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier and Barcelona president, Joan Laporta on signing him.

Arsenal Manager also met with Ronaldo to discuss a possible transfer. Alex Ferguson was impressed by Ronaldo’s performance in a 3-1 defeat of Manchester United in August 2003.

Ferguson was further pressurized to sign him permanently after United plan to sign him for a year before loaning him back to Sporting CP. Sporting was paid 12.24 million pounds in exchange for him.

Manchester United (2003–2009)

Ronaldo who was the first Portuguese signing by Manchester United had the most expensive signing for a teenager in the 2003–2004 season.

He proved his worth as he became one of the best players in Europe. While Ronaldo played in England, he became the first player to break the 20-goal barrier and helped United claim their first League title in four years.

His achievements didn’t go unnoticed as he received Professional Footballer’s Association’s Player, Young Player of the Year and the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year, making him the first player to receive four major PFA and FWA award for two consecutive seasons.

He also won the Premier League Golden Boot for his 31 goals and European Golden Shoe, the first winger to achieve the feat.

In the Champions League, Ronaldo inspired United to clinch Europe’s prestigious tournament which earned him the UEFA club footballer of the Year Award.

Ronaldo rounded off his time with United with the Ballon d’Or award, becoming the first Premier League Player to be named the FIFA World Player of the Year.

He also received the FIFA Puskas Award for best goal as well as winning the Premier League with United for the third time. Ronaldo claimed a total of nine trophies while at Manchester United.

Real Madrid (2009–2018)

Ronaldo secured a move to Real Madrid before the start of the 2009–2010 season, in a world-record transfer of 94 million Euros, with a 1 billion Euros buyout clause with His contract which was set to expire in 2015.

The attendance of 80,000 fans at his presentation at the Santiago Bernabeu broke the 25-year record of 75,000 attendances at Diego Maradona’s Napoli presentation.

His first season with Madrid still saw him as a Ballon d’Or contender as he emerged second in the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year behind Lionel Messi despite failing to win any trophy.

The following season saw him also emerged as a runner-up behind Lionel Messi in the FIFA Ballon d’Or awards. But this time inspiring Madrid to the La Liga title, their first in four years.

During his time at Madrid, he forged an attacking trio, known as the BBC, an acronym for Bale, Benzema and Cristiano with his fellow teammates. He enjoyed a successful run, which made him admit he was in the best form of his career.

Ronaldo won the FIFA Ballon d’Or an amalgamation of the FIFA World Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo also helped the Madrid to their tenth European championship, La Decima and as well as their 12thLa Duodecima.

Ronaldo particularly achieved more in his final days with Madrid becoming Madrid first Player to score a total of 5,900 goals.

He also became the first player to score 100 goals in a UEFA club competition. Ronaldo emerged the top scorer of the UEFA Champions League for a fifth consecutive season. He led Madrid to their twelveth European title, La Duodecima earning him his fifth Player of the Year award.

Ronaldo received the Ballon d’Or award a day after winning the FIFA Best Men Player Award. The highest point of his last days with Madrid was his bicycle kick goal in a 3-0 away win over Juventus which was lauded by the opposition fans.

The goal was labelled as a “Playstation goal” by Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli.

Juventus (2018 – 2021)

After rumours of an imminent move from Real Madrid, Ronaldo secured a 100 million Euros transfer to Juventus which also included an additional 12 million euros in fee and contributions to Ronaldo’s youth club.

His transfer was the highest for a player above 30 years old. Ronaldo attributed his move to Juventus to the need for a new challenge, but later said he opted for a transfer due to a lack of support from the club president.

He debuted for Juventus in a Serie A goal against Chievo on August 18, 2018. In his first champions league appearance for Juventus, he was sent off due to violent conduct.

Manchester United (2021 – present)

Ronaldo returned to his youth team Manchester United in August 2021. It was no shock that the first day of his return to Manchester United his T shirt sales have broken every club record, ever.

As this stage evolves we will update this page with his achievements that are honestly too much to keep track at this stage. Breaking league records every year, it is clear that even at his age which is considered ” old” he still has the ability to be at the top of his game.

Cristiano Ronaldo National Team Career

After beginning his national team career in 2001, Ronaldo became a regular face in the Portuguese National team squad, appearing in the 2002 URFA European Under-17 Football Championship, the 2004 summer Olympic as well as in the under-15, under-17, under-20, under-21 and under-23 national teams, before debuting for the senior team at age 18.

After a series of trials at the Euros, Ronaldo finally led Portugal to the Euros success in 2016. He last featured for the Portuguese side in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where he had a spectacular performance.

Cristiano Ronaldo Family and Personal Life

Ronaldo gave birth to his first child in 2010, the identity of the child’s mother is unknown. It is unclear if he was involved in a relationship or if the child was given birth to via surrogacy. In 2017, he became a father to twins.

Ronaldo is known to be a philanthropist. In 2004, he visited Indonesia to raise funds for rehabilitation and reconstruction after TV footage showed a boy whose parent had been killed in the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and had been stranded for 19 days.

In 2012 he and his agent paid for the treatment of a nine-year-old Canarian boy with terminal cancer. He sold his 2011 golden boot for 1.5 million euros to fund schools in Gaza.

In August 2016, he launched the CR7Selfie app, a selfie app for charity to aid Saving of children.

Ronaldo and a man were accused of rape. One of the women involved withdrew her allegation. Subsequently, Scotland Yard issued a statement that there was not enough evidence to file a case.

In 2017, German newspaper Der Spiegel published an article which alleged a rape accusation against Ronaldo.

The rape was said to have taken place in 2009 and was subject to legal persecution before a non-disclosure agreement was signed, which made the charges to be dropped. In September 2018, the German newspaper revealed the name of the woman as Kathryn Mayorga. Ronaldo dismissed the allegation as fake news.

Ronaldo was charged with tax evasion in July 2017. He was said to have evaded about 15 million euros in tax between 2011 and 2014. He was reportedly sentenced to two years in jail and fined about 18.8 million euros in a deal with the Spanish Authorities.

The fine was reduced by 2 million euros. The sentence could be served under probation without jail time.

Cristiano Ronaldo Achievements and Awards

Tournaments won.

• Premier League (2006-2007, 2007-2008, 2008-2009)
• FA Cup (2003-2004), Football League Cup (2005-2006, 2008-2009)
• FA Community Shield (2007)
• La Liga (2011-2012, 2016-2017)
• Copa del Rey (2010-2011, 2013-2014)
• Supercopa de Espana (2012, 2017)
• UEFA Champions League (2007-2008, 2013-2014, 2015-2016, 2016-2017, 2017-2018)
• UEFA Super Cup (2014, 2017)
• FIFA Club World Cup (2008, 2014, 2016, 2017)
• UEFA European Championship (2016)
• UEFA Euros (2016)

Individual Awards

• FIFA Ballon d’Or (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
• UEFA Men’s Player of the Year (2013-2014, 2015-2016, 2016-2017)
• Champions League Forward of the Season (2017-2018)
• UEFA Club Footballer of the Year (2008)
• Barclays Player of the Year (2006-2007, 2007-2008)
• PFA Young Player of the Year (2006-2007)
• PFA Player of the Year (2006-2007, 2007-2008)
• La Liga Best Player (2013-2014)
• La Liga Best Forward (2013-2014)
• La Liga Most Valuable Player (2012-2013)

Cristiano Ronaldo Biography Facts, Nickname, Occupation, Current Teams, Education, Parents, Siblings, Wife/Girlfriend, Children, Zodiac Sign

SEE ALSO: 10 Reasons Cristiano Ronaldo Is The Greatest Footballer Of All Time

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Biography Cristiano Ronaldo

Short Biography Cristiano Ronaldo

His second name ‘Ronaldo’ was named after his father’s favourite American actor – Ronald Reagan.

From an early age, he loved playing football. His talent, enthusiasm and love for the game soon became apparent. By the age of ten, his talent was becoming well known in Portugal and he was signed for Nacional, a Portuguese side from Madeira. He later signed for Sporting Lisbon – one of the biggest clubs in Portugal.

His first international exposure came when representing Portugal under 17s at the UEFA championships. His performance caused him to be marked by leading European football managers. In 2003, he played against Manchester United when Sporting beat them 3-1 in a friendly.

At Manchester United, his career steadily progressed. In the 2006/07 season, Ronaldo was a key figure in Manchester’s successful league campaign. Ronaldo scored over 20 goals, as he won his first championship. In March 2007, his prowess helped him to gain a record-breaking £120,000 a week five-year contract. He also won PFA player of the year award.

The 2007-08 season was even better, with Cristiano Ronaldo being named the player of the tournament, as Manchester United won the coveted Champions League trophy. The most prestigious club competition in the world. Sir Alex Ferguson said of Ronaldo:

“We’ve had some great players at this club in my 20 years, but he’s up with the best.”

Real Madrid

However, despite the success, Ronaldo expressed a desire to leave the club, and move to Real Madrid. In 2009, Manchester United accepted an offer of £80 million from Real Madrid, making Ronaldo the most expensive player in the world.

His prolific goal-scoring record has lead to frequent comparison with Barcelona’s exceptional Lionel Messi. Sometimes, Ronaldo played up the rivalry, but at other times played it down.

“It’s part of my life now. People are bound to compare us. He tries to do his best for his club and for his national team, as I do, and there is a degree of rivalry with both of us trying to do the best for the teams we represent.”

– Cristiano Ronaldo

On 10 July 2018, Ronaldo was signed by Italian club Juventus for a €100 transfer fee (plus additional €12 million in other fees. In his first season, he helped Juventus to another Serie A title, and Ronaldo became the first player to win national titles in the big three leagues of England, Spain and Italy.

World Cup and international career.

Style of Play

There is widespread admiration for the athleticism, speed, talent and technical ability of Ronaldo. He has the capacity to dribble and beat players, and score a spectacular array of goals from overhead bicycle kicks to free-kicks and headers. Over the years, he has worked on both his physical strength and technical ability. He plays with tremendous confidence and often makes use of feints, dummies and step-overs, his skill and reputation make him a feared opponent. His self-confidence is a defining feature of his game and personality. Interviewed in 2018, he replied

“In my mind, I’m always the best. I don’t care what people think, what they say. In my mind, not just this year but always, I’m always the best.”

Cristiano Ronaldo BBC Sport ( 5 November 2015 ).

Ronaldo has a strong work ethic, and has been able to maintain a consistently high standard of play for several seasons:

“I am not a perfectionist, but I like to feel that things are done well. More important than that, I feel an endless need to learn, to improve, to evolve, not only to please the coach and the fans, but also to feel satisfied with myself. It is my conviction that there are no limits to learning, and that it can never stop, no matter what our age.”

– Cristiano Ronaldo.

He has sometimes been accused of having a petulant side. For example at the 2010 World Cup, he winked after getting David Beckham sent off.

Outside of football

Outside of football, he is often photographed with his model girlfriends and in his many sports car. Perhaps unfairly, he is characterised as the ultimate ‘playboy’ footballer, with his styled hair, and expensive clothes. In 2009, he was involved in a crash whilst driving his Ferrari. However, after reacting to newspaper claims he was involved in drinking in England, he replied,

“I don’t smoke or drink, and I’m not a big spender. I live in a rural part of Cheshire and my nearest neighbours are squirrels, birds and cows. Much of my time is spent at home with friends and family. I enjoy being peaceful and often sit by the candlelight to relax. Tranquillity is important to me.”

Ronaldo says he does not drink alcohol, which may be related to the early death of his father in 2005, aged 52 from alcohol-related liver damage.

He has also been involved in numerous philanthropy initiatives and has given parts of his salary to charitable relief efforts. He serves as a Save the Children Global artist ambassador.

Family life

He has three children via a surrogate mother and one daughter with a former girlfriend, Spanish model Georgina Rodriguez.

The legendary George Best said of Ronaldo:

“There have been a few players described as the new George Best over the years, but this is the first time it’s been a compliment to me.”

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan . “Biography of Cristiano Ronaldo”, Oxford, UK. www.biographyonline.net Last updated 18 March 2020.

Career Achievements

• Ronaldo is the only player to win the unique combination of the league title, domestic cup, domestic Supercup, Champions League, Club World Cup, League player of the year, Golden Shoe and Ballon d’Or at two clubs (Manchester United and Real Madrid)
• Most goals scored in a single calendar year for club and country: 63 goals (2012)
• Most goals scored in the UEFA Champions League: 128 goals (2020)
• Winner of five FIFA Ballon d’Or awards (given to world’s best player)
• Only player to win national titles in England, Spain and Italy.
• Five times winner of UEFA Champions League (4 with Real Madrid, 1 with Man Utd)
• Four times winner of FIFA club world cup.
• At the time (2009) The most expensive footballer in history £80 million – Man Utd to Real Madrid
• Only player in history to have scored 60 or more goals in a calendar year four times (consecutively from 2011 to 2014)
• The only player to score 50 goals or more in seven consecutive seasons (2011-17)
• Real Madrid all-time top goalscorer: 450 goals
• Most goals scored in a season in all competitions: 60 goals
• Most goals scored in a single La Liga season: 46 goals
• Most goals scored in a single UEFA Champions League season: 17 goals
• Most hat-tricks in a La Liga career (25)
• Most international goals scored in a calendar year: 32 (2017)
• First player to score in ten consecutive international tournaments (2004-19)
• Portugal’s most capped player of all time: 164 caps
• Portugal’s all-time top goalscorer: 99 goals

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13 Comments

Imagine saying pepsi(messi) is better than the goat (Ronaldo)

• February 10, 2022 5:23 PM

Christiano is the best player in the whole world

• January 07, 2022 11:34 AM
• By Adebisi adeyinka

cr7 is the best player in worldwide

• December 28, 2021 7:50 AM
• By akindejoye tayo

Join the Discussion Cancel reply

Biography of Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid Soccer Player

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Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro (born February 5, 1985) is the quintessential footballer/soccer star. Possessing strength, pace, skill, and professionalism in abundance, Ronaldo’s many attributes leave him well-equipped for the modern game.

In an age where players have never been fitter or stronger, Ronaldo ensures that his outrageous natural talent is complemented by a bulging physique that makes him a tough competitor and a threat to any defense.

In 2009, his US$131 million move from Manchester United to Real Madrid made him the most expensive player in the world (since surpassed by Gareth Bale). And at the Bernabeu, he has thrilled the masses with high-caliber performances and an unreal number of goals.

Fast Facts: Cristano Ronaldo

• Nationality: Portuguese
• Date and Place of Birth: February 5, 1985, in Funchal, Portugal
• Position: Winger/Striker
• Current Club: Real Madrid (La Liga)
• Previous Clubs: Sporting Lisbon (2001-2003), Manchester United (2003-2009)
• International Career: 2003 to present

Early Career

Sporting Lisbon signed a 10-year-old Ronaldo after a three-day trial and he ultimately became the first player to turn out for the club with the Under-16, Under-17, Under-18, B-team, and first team in a single season.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson swooped to sign him as an 18-year-old after a devastating performance in a friendly against his side in 2003.

Rise to Prominence

Ferguson eased Ronaldo in gently, but from his early cameo performances, it was obvious the Scot had signed a player of immense natural ability.

Wearing the famous number seven shirt previously assigned to the likes of George Best and Eric Cantona, Ronaldo’s first season garnered 10 goals.

By the end of the 2006-07 season, the Portuguese star had registered 23 goals in 53 appearances for United and played a major role in the club winning their first title for four seasons.

The World's Best

The following campaign was to prove his best in a Red Devils shirt. Ronaldo scored a stunning total of 42 goals in 49 games as United won the Premier League and Champions League . He dovetailed beautifully with Wayne Rooney, while Carlos Tevez helped make the team’s attack one of the most prolific in the world game that season.

But rumors already started circulating about a move to Real Madrid. Manchester United stood firm that summer, retaining Ronaldo for one last season and at the turn of the year he won the FIFA World Player of the Year award for the first time.

Twenty-six goals in all competition helped United to another Premier League title and an appearance in the Champions League final where the English club was beaten 2-0 by Barcelona.

But it was no secret that Ronaldo was looking for pastures new and on June 26, 2009, Real Madrid confirmed that he would be joining them in a world record deal.

The Latest Galáctico

Florentino Perez was the man who brought Ronaldo to the Bernabeu as he begun a second spell as president. His Galácticos policy is world famous, and Ronaldo certainly fitted the mold, following in the footsteps of Luis Figo, David Beckham, and Zinedine Zidane.

Ronaldo was presented to 80,000 fans at the Bernabeu, as club legend Alfredo Di Stefano handed him the famous number nine shirt.

A devastating haul of 33 goals in 35 appearances—despite missing a month and a half through injury—rendered his first season in Spain a huge personal success, although no trophies were forthcoming as Barcelona continued their domestic dominance and Real Madrid again bowed out in the Champions League second round.

Under fellow countryman Jose Mourinho , Ronaldo helped Real Madrid to the Copa del Rey in the 2010/11 season, scoring the winning goal against Barcelona in the final.

He also beat the all-time record for goals in a single season in La Liga, turning on the afterburners (11 in the final four games) in the final weeks to take his tally to 40 for the season.

Another Personal Best

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi would exceed that tally the following season, but 2011/12 was also to be Ronaldo’s best to date. He netted 46 in the league and a sublime 63 in all competition as Real Madrid reclaimed the Liga title from Barcelona.

His goal against Barca in a 2-1 Liga win at Camp Nou all but ensured Real Madrid’s first title since 2008. Indeed, 2011/12 was the season Ronaldo started to match his performance in El Clasico with those against the league’s lesser lights.

Ronaldo has surpassed the 50-goal mark for Real Madrid in each of the seasons since and in the 2013/14 campaign he netted a record 17 in 11 Champions League matches as the club finally achieved La Decima —their 10th European Cup.

Another stunning season, of course, saw Ronaldo retain the FIFA Ballon d'Or which he has also won the previous year.

International Level

Ronaldo was first called up to the senior Portugal squad in August 2003, and made the final cut for Euro 2004, where he scored two goals. But on home turf, Portugal lost to Greece in the final.

Seven goals helped his country qualify for the 2006 World Cup, but at the big event in Germany, he could only muster a penalty against Iran as Portugal lost to France in the semi-finals.

Ronaldo again flourished in qualifying for Euro 2008, but was disappointing when the big event came around as Portugal went out in the quarter-finals.

Despite a scintillating first season in a Real Madrid shirt, Ronaldo again looked bereft at his next major tournament—the 2010 World Cup in South Africa . He netted in the 7-0 rout of North Korea, but like many of the tournament’s other major stars, failed to deliver and did little as Portugal bowed out to eventual winners Spain in the second round.

Ronaldo's three goals helped Portugal to the semi-finals of Euro 2012, after he had made a slow start to the tournament. The 2014 World Cup was a deep disappointment, though, as a knee tendonitis problem undermined his displays. He scored just once as Portugal bowed out in the group stage amid speculation that he did not believe in his teammates.

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Last updated: Oct 27, 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo Bio And Facts

Table of Contents

Cristiano ronaldo, social media, soccer career, titles and awards, personal life.

Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese soccer player who is known to be one of the greatest players of his generation.  He currently plays as a striker for Manchester United and the Portuguese National Football Team. He previously played for the clubs Sporting CP, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He has won seven league titles collectively with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. Alongside that, he also has won the Champions League title five times and the UEFA Euro League and Nationals League once.

Not only is Ronaldo known for his soccer skills, but he is also known to have one of the highest social media followings across his platforms. This has landed him contracts with major companies such as Nike. Ronaldo has also established his own brand CR7, through which he sells eyewear, footwear, underwear, and fragrances. Cristiano Ronaldo has made a huge impact on this generation with his soccer skills and popularity.

• Born:  February 5, 1985 (05-02-1985)
• Net Worth:  $500 million
• Occupation:  Professional Soccer Player
• Height:  6’1” (1.85 m)
• Weight:  185 lbs (83.9 kg)
• Position:   Forward , Striker
• Years Active:  2002-Present
• Career Goals :  700
• Nicknames:  CR7
• Teams:  Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus F.C., and Portuguese National Football Team
• Business Website

Cristiano Ronaldo began his professional soccer career in 2002 at Sporting Club de Portugal as he was promoted from their youth team. After a successful season at Sporting, he was transferred to the Premier League to play for one of its biggest clubs, Manchester United. At the time, his transfer cost £12.24 million. He wore the number 7 jersey which had been worn by many great soccer players previously. He lived up to that and became a sensational player as he helped Manchester United win the Premier League title and Champions League title in the 2007-2008 season.  

Soon after, Ronaldo transferred to Real Madrid in 2009 and played there until 2018. He helped win Real Madrid multiple La Liga titles, but also three Champions League titles in a row. He ended his Real Madrid career with 292 matches and 311 goals. In July 2018, he transferred to Juventus, where he made 134 appearances and scored 101 goals.

Ronaldo transferred back to Manchester United in 2021, where he still plays today. This was a monumental transfer for fans of CR7, who were delighted that he was returning to the Premier League.

Throughout his professional career, Ronaldo has won multiple titles and awards. He has won five Ballon d’Or awards in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017 . This is the most for any European player. He is also a five times UEFA Champion Leagues winner in which he won for 2007-08 Manchester United, 2013-14, 2014-15, 2016-17, and 2017-18 seasons with Real Madrid. 

Ronaldo has also been awarded top scorer 17 times during his career which includes the Champions League, La Liga, Premier League, FA Cup, and Fifa Club World Cup. Ronaldo was also the UEFA Best Player in Europe during the years of 2014, 2016, and 2017. Ronaldo also has the record for most goals scored in the UEFA Champions League, with 130 goals. From 2007 to 2018, Ronaldo has been awarded Footballer of the Year in Portugal as well. 

Ronaldo grew up in Madeira, Portugal and is the youngest of four children. He was first introduced to soccer through his father’s job as an equipment manager for a boy’s soccer club. As a child, Ronaldo also faced multiple hardships growing up due to his father’s drinking problem. Despite this, he shared a close relationship with his parents.

Ronaldo previously dated model Irina Shayk, who ended their relationship after five years in 2015. In 2016, Ronaldo started dating Georgina Rodriquez who he is currently with. He has five children: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., Eva Maria dos Santos, Mateo Ronaldo, Alana Martina  dos Santos Aveiro, and Bella Ismerelda.  Ronaldo Jr. was born in 2010 and Ronaldo has full custody of his son due to an agreement with Ronaldo Jr.'s mother. Her identity remains a mystery as they did not want to disclose this information. Eva and Mateo were born in 2017 via surrogacy. In 2017, Rodriguez gave birth to Alana. In 2022, Rodriguez gave birth a second time to Bella Ismerelda. 

• The name “Ronaldo” was added to Cristiano’s full name as his father’s favorite actor at the time was Ronald Reagan.
• Ronaldo is the most followed athlete on Instagram, as he reached 200 million followers in 2020.
• Juventus sold over 520,000 Ronaldo jerseys (that valued up to $60 million) 24 hours after their release. 
• Ronaldo has established his own brand CR7, which includes eyewear, footwear, denim, and fragrances.
• He is the 3rd athlete of all time to get a “lifetime” contract with Nike, which is valued around $1 billion. 
• The Madeira airport in Madeira, Portugal (his hometown) has a bronze statue of Ronaldo. 
• Ronaldo is said to make close to $400,000 per sponsored post on his Instagram account. 
• He had his legs insured at $144 million by Real Madrid. 

Which teams has Ronaldo played for?

Ronaldo started his career at Sporting CP and eventually transferred to Manchester United in 2003, Real Madrid in 2009, Juventus in 2018 and then back to MU in 2021.  He also plays for the Portuguese national football team. Ronaldo’s career accelerated while he was at Manchester United. He helped the club win a league title after 4 years. Ronaldo performed extremely well for Real Madrid, ending his career with 311 goals in 292 matches.

How has Ronaldo gained so much popularity?

Ronaldo is well known for his skill on the pitch. Due to this popularity, he is one of the highest-paid endorsers. Ronaldo differentiates himself from other athletes as he leverages his social media presence and brand power. Across his Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, he has over 440 million fans. Brands all across the world have made him the face for their companies, ranging from cable providers to watch companies. Ronaldo has successfully used his presence to build a brand and following for himself.

Does Ronaldo do charitable work?

Ronaldo has been known to make considerable contributions to different charities during his career. During the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and earthquake, he went to Indonesia to help raise funds for the rebuilding of the country. He has also previously auctioned off his Ballon d’Or trophy from 2013 to raise money for the Make-a-Wish foundation. He had also made a hefty donation to Save the Children to help with clothing, food, and medical care for the children in Syria.

Do Ronaldo and Messi have a rivalry?

When they both played the La Liga, Ronald and Messi had almost a decade long “rivalry” due to their clubs being old rivals. Ronaldo then played for Real Madrid and Messi still plays for F.C. Barcelona. Not only that, but both have always been top players, breaking new records. Both players are considered to be two of the best of their generation and are naturally compared to one another in the public eye. Both have challenged each other to compete and do their best. Despite many rumors and talk, both have condemned this rivalry publicly and act civil with one another.

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Who Is Ronaldo?

Ronaldo established himself as an unstoppable scorer for European soccer teams in the mid-1990s. He bounced back from a disappointing finish to the 1998 World Cup and a series of knee injuries to lead Brazil to victory in the 2002 World Cup, and retired in 2011 as one of the game's all-time greats.

Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima was born on September 18, 1976, in Itaguaí, Brazil. His parents, Nélio Nazário de Lima and Sônia dos Santos Barata, separated when he was 11, and Ronaldo dropped out of school shortly afterward to pursue a soccer career.

Ronaldo joined the Social Ramos indoor soccer team at the age of 12 before moving on to São Cristóvão, where he was discovered by his future agents, Reinaldo Pitta and Alexandre Martins. The two arranged for the sale of their new client's contract to Cruzeiro, a professional club in the city of Belo Horizonte.

Professional Soccer Player

Ronaldo showcased his impressive goal-scoring ability for Cruzeiro, helping the club to its first Brazil Cup championship in 1993. The talented 17-year-old was named to the Brazilian national team for the 1994 World Cup in the United States, though he watched from the bench as his countrymen won the Cup.

Ronaldo hit the ground running when his contract was sold to PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands in 1994, averaging nearly a goal per game against top-notch European competition. Two years with PSV Eindhoven were followed by one with FC Barcelona and then a move to Inter Milan, a four-year period in which Ronaldo twice won FIFA World Player of the Year and carried his teams to victory in the Dutch and Spanish Super Cups.

During his peak, Ronaldo possessed an unstoppable combination of speed and power, equally capable of plowing through defenders as he was of nimbly sidestepping their attacks and accelerating away. Adding to his aura was an aversion to practicing and training hard, an attitude that did little to stem his dominance.

Big things were expected from Ronaldo and Brazil in the 1998 World Cup in France, but while he was named the Golden Ball winner as the Cup's best player, the tournament ended on a sour note when Ronaldo suffered a convulsive fit before the final and was ineffective in a 3-0 loss to the host country. Bigger setbacks followed when Ronaldo ruptured a knee tendon in November 1999 and reinjured the knee five months later, knocking him out of action for almost two years.

Ronaldo made a triumphant return in time for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, netting eight goals to win the Golden Boot Award as the Cup's top scorer while leading Brazil its fifth world championship. Ronaldo transferred to Real Madrid that fall, winning the FIFA World Player of the Year Award a third time before leading his new club to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup championships in 2003.

Ronaldo appeared in one final World Cup for Brazil in 2006. Although Brazil was bounced in the quarterfinals by France, Ronaldo scored three times to set a record with 15 career goals in World Cup play.

Ronaldo transferred to AC Milan in 2007, but in 2008 he sustained another serious knee injury and his contract was not renewed after the season. The Brazilian legend returned to his home country in 2009 to play for Corinthians, helping them to victories in the Campeonato Paulista league and Brazil Cup that year, before announcing his retirement in February 2011.

Post-Career and Legacy

Ronaldo is recognized as one of the best soccer players in history. In 2004, he was named to the FIFA 100, a list of the greatest living players compiled by the legendary Pelé, and in 2010, he was deemed Goal.com's "Player of the Decade."

Often criticized for not training hard as a pro athlete, Ronaldo set himself up for an active post-playing career by founding 9ine, a sports marketing agency. He also joined the organizing committees for the Brazil-based 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics, ensuring that he would remain an influential figure in Brazilian sports and international affairs for years to come.

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Ronaldo Luiz Nazario de Lima
• Birth Year: 1976
• Birth date: September 18, 1976
• Birth City: Itaguaí
• Birth Country: Brazil
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: Soccer player Ronaldo starred for the Brazilian national team and several European clubs over the course of a career that spanned nearly two decades.
• Education and Academia
• Astrological Sign: Virgo
• Nacionalities

CITATION INFORMATION

• Article Title: Ronaldo Biography
• Author: Biography.com Editors
• Website Name: The Biography.com website
• Url: https://www.biography.com/athletes/ronaldo
• Access Date:
• Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
• Last Updated: May 17, 2021
• Original Published Date: April 2, 2014
• You run, I don't. I score goals.

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Cristiano Ronaldo Biography: The Life and Legacy of a Football Legend

Jonathan Kao

April 3, 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo, born Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, stands out as a towering figure in the world of football. His journey began on the Portuguese island of Madeira where he honed his skills from a young age. Ronaldo’s natural talent and relentless work ethic propelled him from a young dreamer playing for local clubs to a global superstar gracing some of the world’s most prestigious pitches.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ronaldo’s name has become synonymous with success and achievement. His track record of scoring goals and shattering records has earned him a spot among the legendary players of the game. Off the field, his life story attracts just as much interest, marked by determination and triumph over personal challenges that add depth to his persona beyond the accolades.

Key Takeaways

• Cristiano Ronaldo’s career began in Madeira and quickly escalated to international stardom.
• His football achievements include numerous titles and records with major European clubs.
• Ronaldo’s biography encompasses both his professional triumphs and personal resilience.

Absolutely! Here’s a table outlining Cristiano Ronaldo’s key career information. Since his career is extensive, I’ll focus on the most important aspects:

Cristiano Ronaldo

Major career highlights, additional notes.

• Ronaldo holds numerous individual records, including most goals scored in international soccer and the UEFA Champions League.
• He is widely considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey began on the island of Madeira, where his natural talent for football soon catapulted him from local kid to global sensation.

Birth and Family Background

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born on February 5, 1985, in Funchal , Madeira, Portugal. The youngest child of María Dolores dos Santos Aveiro, a cook, and José Dinis Aveiro, a municipal gardener and part-time kit man, Ronaldo’s family was steeped in the love for the beautiful game from the very beginning.

Early Football Days in Madeira and Sporting CP

Ronaldo’s path to stardom started in the streets of Madeira. Before long, he was spotted as a prodigious talent and began playing for local club Andorinha. At the tender age of 12, he moved to Lisbon to join one of Portugal’s largest clubs, Sporting CP , where his potential began to turn heads.

Development at Sporting Lisbon and Move to Manchester United

It wasn’t just Ronaldo’s feet that were swift; his development was rapid, too. He ascended through the ranks of Sporting’s famed academy with ease, impressing with his speed, technique, and goal-scoring prowess. In 2003, after leaving a lasting impression during a pre-season friendly against them, Ronaldo sparked the interest of Manchester United’s then-manager, Sir Alex Ferguson who signed him shortly thereafter, ushering in a new chapter for the young star at one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs.

Club Career and Achievements

Cristiano Ronaldo’s club career is marked by remarkable success, transformative transfers, and an impressive collection of individual and team awards.

Dominance in the Premier League

Ronaldo’s tenure at Manchester United showcased his emergence as a world-class talent. He helped the team secure three Premier League titles consecutively from 2007 to 2009. His performance also earned him his first Ballon d’Or in 2008.

Transfer to Real Madrid and La Liga Success

His transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 set a world record fee at the time. In Spain, Ronaldo’s brilliance continued with two La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies. His goal-scoring prowess was unmatched, making him Real’s all-time top scorer.

Continued Success at Juventus and Beyond

Ronaldo’s journey took him to Juventus in 2018, leading to two Serie A titles and a Supercoppa Italiana . Though his time in Italy was shorter, his impact was clear, tallying goals and adding a Coppa Italia to his list of accomplishments.

Fun and Interesting Facts About Ronaldo

Here’s a selection of fun and interesting facts about Ronaldo:

• Nickname Origins: As a child, he was nicknamed “cry-baby” and “little bee”. The “cry-baby” part was due to his frustration when his teammates didn’t score, and “little bee” was because nobody could catch him on the pitch.
• Heart Condition: At 15, he was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that could have ended his football dreams. He underwent surgery to correct it, allowing him to continue his career.
• Speed Demon: Ronaldo is known for his incredible speed and agility. He’s been clocked at a top speed of around 21 miles per hour, which is just a bit slower than Usain Bolt at his peak!
• Museum Dedicated to Himself: Ronaldo has a personal museum in his hometown of Madeira, Portugal. The CR7 Museum showcases his trophies, awards, and memorabilia.
• Philanthropy: Ronaldo is a generous philanthropist involved in various causes. He’s donated to disaster relief efforts, supported children’s charities, and serves as an ambassador for Save the Children and World Vision.
• No Tattoos: Unlike many footballers, Ronaldo doesn’t have any tattoos. This is because he regularly donates blood and tattoos can complicate the donation process.
• Fashion Icon: Ronaldo has his own fashion lines including underwear (CR7 Underwear) and fragrances. He’s known for his style on and off the pitch.
• He Was Named After a President: His middle name, “Ronaldo” was chosen because of his father’s admiration for former US President Ronald Reagan.
• Jump Power: Ronaldo has an extraordinary vertical leap. He can jump higher than the average NBA player, which contributes to his heading prowess.
• Insane Work Ethic: He is legendary for being one of the hardest working athletes in the world. His dedication to fitness and training is unmatched.
• Social Media Superstar: Ronaldo is one of the most followed people on social media in the world, with a massive presence across platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
• Businessman: Beyond his football career, Ronaldo has a successful business empire. He has investments in hotels, gyms, and various other ventures.
• Singer?: Ronaldo has occasionally tried his hand at singing. You can find videos online of him belting out tunes, though it might not be his next career move!

Frequently Asked Questions

These questions explore key aspects of Cristiano Ronaldo’s life and career, providing quick insights into his personal and professional journey.

What is Cristiano Ronaldo’s full name?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. This name reflects his Portuguese heritage and family ties.

At what age did Cristiano Ronaldo start his professional football career?

Cristiano Ronaldo began his professional football career at the young age of 16 when he signed with Manchester United in 2003, marking the start of an illustrious career.

Who are the members of Cristiano Ronaldo’s family?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s immediate family includes his mother, Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro, and his father, José Dinis Aveiro. He has one son named Cristiano Jr. and three more children.

Which clubs has Cristiano Ronaldo played for, including the dates he joined them?

Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting CP in 2002, before moving to Manchester United in 2003. In 2009, he joined Real Madrid, then transferred to Juventus in 2018. He returned to Manchester United in 2021, and as of January 2023, he plays for Al Nassr.

What is known about Cristiano Ronaldo’s childhood and early life?

Cristiano Ronaldo was born in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. His childhood home was humble, and he began playing soccer for a local team, Andorinha, where his father worked as the equipment manager.

Has Cristiano Ronaldo ever faced any significant health issues during his career?

Throughout his career, Ronaldo has maintained exemplary physical fitness. However, he has overcome minor injuries and health challenges that are common in high-level athletes.

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Cristiano Ronaldo is a name that resonates with football enthusiasts around the globe. The Portuguese superstar has etched his name in the annals of football history through his exceptional skills, incredible goal-scoring prowess, and unmatched dedication to the sport. Beyond his achievements on the pitch, there are numerous intriguing and lesser-known aspects of Ronaldo’s life that contribute to his captivating persona. In this article, we delve into 18 fun facts about Cristiano Ronaldo, shedding light on the extraordinary journey of this football icon.

Humble Beginnings in Madeira

Born on February 5, 1985, on the Portuguese island of Madeira, Cristiano Ronaldo hails from humble origins. He grew up in a working-class neighborhood, where his passion for football flourished. Despite modest means, Ronaldo’s talent and determination propelled him toward greatness.

Sporting Lisbon – The Starting Point

Ronaldo’s football journey began at the age of 12 when he joined the renowned Portuguese club Sporting Lisbon. His exceptional performances quickly attracted the attention of top clubs across Europe.

Flying High with Manchester United

In 2003, Ronaldo signed with Manchester United , marking the start of his international career. Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo honed his skills, becoming a key player in the club’s success. He won three Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League during his tenure.

Iconic Number 7 Jersey

Ronaldo’s association with the number 7 jersey has become legendary. At Manchester United, he inherited the iconic number from club legends such as George Best , Eric Cantona, and David Beckham. He continues to don the number 7 jersey for both club and country.

Ronaldo and Real Madrid – A Record-Breaking Saga

In 2009, Cristiano Ronaldo made a high-profile move to Real Madrid , becoming the most expensive player in the world at the time. His nine-year spell with the Spanish giants was nothing short of remarkable, yielding four Champions League titles and numerous individual accolades.

A Scoring Machine

Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess is unparalleled. He holds numerous records, including being the all-time top scorer in the UEFA Champions League and the European Championships. Ronaldo’s ability to find the back of the net consistently sets him apart from his peers.

A National Hero

As captain of the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo has been instrumental in their success. He led Portugal to their first-ever major international trophy, the UEFA European Championship in 2016, and followed it up with victory in the UEFA Nations League in 2019.

Charity and Philanthropy

Beyond his on-field exploits, Ronaldo is actively involved in charitable endeavors. He has donated significant sums to various causes, including children’s hospitals, cancer research, and disaster relief efforts. Ronaldo’s philanthropy has positively impacted countless lives.

Business Ventures

Ronaldo has expanded his brand beyond football. He has ventured into business, launching his own clothing line, fragrances, and a chain of hotels. His entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen have established him as a successful entrepreneur.

The Perfect Athlete

Ronaldo is renowned for his incredible physical attributes. He possesses remarkable speed, agility, and jumping ability, which contribute to his exceptional performance on the field . Ronaldo’s dedication to maintaining peak physical condition is evident in his chiseled physique.

Battle with Messi

The rivalry between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is one for the ages. The two have consistently vied for the title of the best player in the world, pushing each other to new heights. Their on-field battles have captivated fans and pundits alike.

Ronaldo’s Superstitious Rituals

Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Ronaldo has a series of superstitious rituals. From stepping onto the pitch with his right foot to styling his hair before every match, these rituals have become synonymous with his pre-game routine.

Ronaldo, the Family Man

Despite his superstar status, Ronaldo values his family above all else. He is a proud father to four children and regularly shares heartwarming moments with them on social media. Ronaldo’s dedication to his family provides a glimpse into his personal life beyond the football field.

Record-Breaker Extraordinaire

Ronaldo holds numerous records, including the most goals scored in a calendar year and the fastest hat trick in La Liga history . His relentless pursuit of excellence has seen him surpass countless milestones throughout his illustrious career.

Ronaldo, the Fashion Icon

Known for his impeccable sense of style, Ronaldo has become a fashion icon. His suave looks and trendsetting outfits make him a regular fixture in the fashion world. Ronaldo’s fashion choices reflect his confidence and flair both on and off the field.

Ronaldo and Social Media Dominance

With a massive following across various social media platforms, Ronaldo is one of the most influential figures online. His engaging posts, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates on his personal and professional life have endeared him to fans worldwide.

Love for Cars

Ronaldo has an undying passion for luxury cars. His collection boasts an impressive array of vehicles, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Bugattis. Ronaldo’s love for fast cars mirrors his electrifying speed on the football pitch.

Sporting Legacy

As Ronaldo continues to defy age, he leaves an indelible mark on the sport. His dedication to training, relentless work ethic, and unmatched talent ensure that his impact on football will endure for generations to come.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey from a young boy in Madeira to an international football sensation is nothing short of extraordinary. Through his skill, determination, and larger-than-life personality, Ronaldo has etched his name among the all-time greats of the sport. These 18 fun facts about Cristiano Ronaldo provide a glimpse into the captivating life of this football icon, showcasing the multifaceted nature of his success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is cristiano ronaldo’s net worth.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million, making him one of the wealthiest athletes in the world.

How many goals has Ronaldo scored in his career?

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored over 700 career goals for both club and country.

How many Ballon d’Or awards has Ronaldo won?

Ronaldo has won the prestigious Ballon d’Or award five times in his career, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

Has Ronaldo ever played for a club in the United States?

Yes, Ronaldo joined the Major League Soccer (MLS) club, the Los Angeles Galaxy, for a brief loan spell in 2007.

Does Ronaldo hold any records in international football?

Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest-scoring European player in international competition, surpassing Ferenc Puskás ‘ record.

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15 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo Biography Facts

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest that has ever played the game of football. He entertains us with a unique style of play, extraordinary dribbling, sensational goals, and electrifying speed.

If you are reading this, I’m sure you are wondering what are the Amazing Facts About Cristiano Ronaldo?

Well, Cristiano Ronaldo, widely known by his stage name “CR7”, is a professional Portuguese footballer. Now playing for Juventus, an Italian club, and the Portuguese national team.

The skipper has a drive for scoring remarkable goals and inspiring his team to victory. Ronaldo is the perfect definition of the word “WINNING” as he does whatever it takes to win.

Thus, We will take a close look at the life of this soccer star who is considered one of the greatest players of all-time(G.O.A.T) in our 15 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo  Childhood & Early Life

Cristiano Ronaldo was born on February 5, 1985. He is the fourth born of his mother whose name is Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro and his father Jose Dinis Aveiro. They lived in Funchal, a Madeira island in Portugal.

CR7’s father worked as a gardener in the metropolis, while his mother was a cook. They named him after the then US President Ronald Reagen.

Ronaldo has an older brother, Hugo, and older sisters, Elma and Liliana. When he was growing up, he and all of his siblings shared a room. Ronaldo was raised a Catholic.

He played as an amateur at Andorinha, before joining Sporting CP for € 1,500 after a three-day trial.

Ronaldo stopped going to school to focus on his football career. Prior to this decision, he had been expelled after throwing a chair at his teacher.

His football dreams were threatened by a racing heart condition, but after undergoing surgery he resumed playing.

Cristiano Ronaldo Professional Club Career

Sporting cp (2002–2003).

Ronaldo joined Sporting CP’s youth team at the age of 16 after being promoted by the first-team manager. Ronaldo is the first sporting player to have played in the U16, U17, U18, B teams, and the first team in one season.

This made Ronaldo’s manager speak with the then-Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier and Barcelona president Joan Laporta about signing him.

Moreso, the Arsenal manager has also met with Ronaldo to discuss a possible transfer deal.

But, after Ronaldo’s performance in a 3-1 loss to Manchester United in August 2003. Alex Ferguson was so impressed that he was in a rush to sign him.

After United signed him, he was loaned back to Sporting CP for one year. Sporting received £ 12.24 million from the CR7’s deal.

Cristiano Ronaldo Manchester United (2003–2009)

Ronaldo was Manchester United’s first Portuguese signing, and also the most expensive teenager in the 2003-2004 season.

Even at that, He proved himself to be one of the best players in Europe. While playing in England, Ronaldo became the first player to cross the 20-goal mark and helped United win their first league title in four years.

His accomplishments did not go unnoticed as he won the Professional Footballer Association Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year, and Football Writer Association Footballer of the Year, making him the first player to receive four major PFA and FWA awards for two consecutive seasons.

He also won the Premier League Golden Shoe for his 31 goals and the European Golden Shoe for being the first winger to accomplish that feat.

In the Champions League, Ronaldo inspired United to win the prestigious European tournament and was named UEFA Club Footballer of the Year. Ronaldo ended his stint at United with the Ballon d’Or Award and became the first Premier League player to be named FIFA World Player of the Year.

He also received the FIFA Puskas Award for Best Goal and won the Premier League with United for the third time.

In conclusion, Ronaldo won a total of nine trophies at Manchester United.

Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid (2009–2018)

Ronaldo secured a transfer deal to Real Madrid just before the start of the 2009/2010 season in a world-record transfer fee of 94 million euros with a buyout clause of 1 billion euros, a contract that was meant expire in 2015.

80,000 football fans showed up during his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu, This broke a 25-year record of Diego Maradona unveiling in Naples which was 75,000 fans.

Though in a new club and league, He was still a Ballon d’Or contender in his first season at Madrid when he finished second behind Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year Lionel Messi, despite not winning a trophy.

The following season he also became a finalist behind Lionel Messi in the FIFA Ballon d’Or. But this time he inspired Madrid to win the La Liga title for the first time in four years.

During his time in Madrid, he and his teammates formed an offensive trio known as the BBC, short for Bale, Benzema, and Cristiano. He had a successful run that made him admit he was in the best shape of his career.

Ronaldo won the FIFA Ballon d’Or, a merger of the FIFA World Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo also helped Madrid win the 10th European La Decima and 12th La Duodecima.

Ronaldo achieved particularly more in his last few days: he became the first player in Madrid to score a total of 5,900 goals. And He was also the first player to score 100 goals in a UEFA club competition. Ronaldo was named UEFA Champions League top scorer for the fifth year in a row.

He led Madrid to the twelfth European title, La Duodecima brought him the fifth player of the year.

Ronaldo received the Ballon d’Or the day after winning the FIFA Men’s Player Award. The highlight of his last days at Madrid was his goal in a 3-0 away win over Juventus, which was praised by opposition supporters.

The goal was described as the “Playstation goal” by Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli.

cristiano Ronaldo Juventus (2018–present)

After rumors of an imminent move from Real Madrid, Ronaldo secured a € 100m transfer to Juventus, which included an additional € 12m in fees and contributions to Ronaldo’s youth club. His transfer was the highest for a player over 30.

Ronaldo attributed his transfer to Juventus because of the need for a new challenge, but later said he had opted for a transfer due to a lack of support from the club president.

He made his debut for Juventus on August 18, 2018 in a Serie A goal against Chievo. On his first appearance in the Champions League for Juventus, he was sent off for violent behavior.

Cristiano Ronaldo National Team Career

After Ronaldo started his national team career in 2001, he became an integral part of the Portuguese national team and competed in the U17 European Football Championship URFA in 2002, the Olympic Games in the summer of 2004 and in the U15, U17, U20 , U21 and U23 national teams, before making his senior debut at the age of 18.

After a series of euro attempts, Ronaldo finally led Portugal to euro success in 2016. Most recently he played for the Portuguese team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where he put on a spectacular performance.

Cristiano Ronaldo Family and Personal Life

Ronaldo gave birth to their first child in 2010, the identity of the child’s mother is unknown. It is not known if he was involved in a relationship or if the child was born through surrogacy. In 2017 he became the father of twins.

Ronaldo is known as a philanthropist. In 2004, he traveled to Indonesia to raise funds for rehabilitation and reconstruction after television footage showed a boy whose parents were killed in the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. and remained blocked for 19 days. In 2012, he and his agent paid for treatment of a nine-year-old boy from the Canary Islands for terminal cancer. He sold his golden boot in 2011 for 1.5 million euros to finance schools in Gaza. In August 2016, he launched the CR7Selfie app, a selfie app for a charity that helps save children.

Ronaldo and a man were charged with rape. One of the women involved withdrew her allegation. Scotland Yard later said there was not enough evidence to file a complaint. In 2017, the German newspaper Der Spiegel published an article alleging rape against Ronaldo. The rape reportedly took place in 2009 and was prosecuted before a non-disclosure agreement was signed, which resulted in the charges being dropped. In September 2018, the German newspaper revealed the woman’s name as Kathryn Mayorga. Ronaldo dismissed the claim as false news.

Ronaldo was charged with tax evasion in July 2017. He is said to have avoided taxes amounting to around 15 million euros between 2011 and 2014. He was reportedly sentenced to two years in prison and fined around 18.8 million euros under an agreement with the Spanish authorities. The fine was reduced by 2 million euros. The sentence could be served without a suspended prison sentence.

Now, here are the 15 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About Cristiano Ronaldo.

15 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About Cristiano Ronaldo.

There are many facts about Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the most popular and successful football players of all time, who has won almost every honor possible in the world of football and is one of the best players of his generation. These are just a few things people won’t believe he does when he off the pitch.

He saved a child from death

That’s not all of his generosity. You ask how ?! Ok … here’s the answer … Ronaldo paid for a kid’s brain surgery after receiving the letter from his parents.

In fact, Ronaldo has been very charitable with his money over the years. For example, in 2009 he donated around one hundred and thirty thousand dollars to the hospital that saved his mother’s life when she had cancer.

He also sold the Golden Boot, which he won in 2011, for more than $ 1.7 million, and donated the proceeds to help fund schools for children in Gaza.

That’s not all, because in 2014 he received a letter from the parents of a boy with brain cancer asking him to donate a football shirt and shoes to an auction. Charity organization to raise funds for the boy’s surgery.

Instead, the football king paid the $ 65,000

Ronaldo was nicknamed ‘cry baby’ during his childhood

Can you even imagine that? Apparently he had been so moved since childhood that he was nicknamed “crybaby” at the time for breaking into tears when he didn’t get what he wanted.

His other nickname was the “little bee” his friends called him when he was playing soccer so fast. As a professional, Ronaldo has stabbed opposing teams for years thanks to his speed.

No tattoos because of blood donation

The sensitive footballer does not have tattoos on his body just because he regularly donates blood.

Unlike many of his football colleagues, Cristiano Ronaldo refuses to get a tattoo because he has a habit of donating blood at least twice a year.

He also became a bone marrow donor when his teammate told him about his son struggling with leukemia in 2011, and he encouraged everyone to join him in helping others in this way. It was an interesting fact about Cr7! or right!!?

He had a laser operation at age 15

Did you know that the football world almost lost the opportunity to watch this sensational playmaker when he was just fifteen?

That year he was diagnosed with heart disease and faced the reality that he may have to quit football.

The problem was diagnosed as a pounding heart, which meant his heart was beating faster than usual, which could be very dangerous in a game situation where his heart rate was even faster.

So he performed laser surgery to correct the problem and luckily returned to the game a few days later.

Ronaldo likes to collect cars

The 34-year-old owns 19 cars, the cheapest of which is a Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI.

The collection includes a Bugatti Veyron, a Lamborghini Aventador, a Ferrari 599 GTO, a Ferrari Laferrari, a Rolls-Royce Ghost, a McLaren mp4-12c, a Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG Coupé, a Bentley Continental GT Speed, a Porsche 911 Turbo S, an Aston Martin db9, Maserati Gran Cabrio, a Bentley Continental GTC, an Audi r8, a Ferrari 599 GTB and a Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet.

He is the highest-paid athlete and fifth highest-paid celebrity in the world

When we talk about the soccer star’s net worth, many of us may think that Cristiano Ronaldo is the richest soccer player in the world, but in the next fact about Cristiano Ronaldo you will see that he is not. Not. As we mentioned earlier, he’s the highest paid soccer player, but not the richest in the world. Additionally, Cris is the sixth greatest artist in the world in 2019, with Taylor Swift first and Lionel Messi fourth, Forbes reports

He has a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike.

Then you should know that, after Michael Jordan and LeBron James, Cris Ronaldo became the third athlete to sign a lifetime endorsement contract with Nike in 2016.

The deal is expected to gross Ronaldo $ 1 billion over the course of his life and can be considered one of the largest sponsorship deals in the world for a sports star.

Young Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t like going to school

The following fact about CR7 is so interesting. You need to know that Ronaldo didn’t do well in school and got kicked out. In fact, he admits he wasn’t interested in school.

The reason he was kicked out of school was that he threw his teacher a chair that he said he did not respect. Interestingly, his mother decided to help him focus on soccer instead of enrolling him in another school, so he started playing semi-professionally at the age of 14.

How He Met His Wife

Cristiano Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez first met at a Dolce & Gabbana event because she was a model there.

They started dating in 2016, and after just a brief moment, she became pregnant with their fourth child. Cris had a twin named Ava and Mateo, who were born to a surrogate mother in America in June 2017, and a seven-year-old son named Cristiano Ronaldo junior, whose identity has been kept secret until now.

The couple reportedly met in the VIP area of a Dolce & Gabbana event and then secretly dated for a while before going public. As we all know, they are still together.

Legendary CR7

If you mention CR7, nobody is going to confuse it with any other brand. Cristiano Ronaldo owned the number 7 jersey and it is obvious he won’t let go of it anytime soon.

However, this may not have been the case. When he joined Manchester his jersey number should be 28. It may sound strange, but it’s true we could have said CR28.

Mr. Alex Furgerson insisted that Ronaldo take the number 7 jersey so he could fill the shoes and work in the vigor of his predecessors, who had the same number as Eric Cantona, George Best, and David Beckham.

Cristiano Ronaldo  Achievements and Awards

Tournaments won.

• Premier League (2006-2007, 2007-2008, 2008-2009)
• FA Cup (2003-2004), Football League Cup (2005-2006, 2008-2009)
• FA Community Shield (2007)
• La Liga (2011-2012, 2016-2017)
• Copa del Rey (2010-2011, 2013-2014)
• Supercopa de Espana (2012, 2017)
• UEFA Champions League (2007-2008, 2013-2014, 2015-2016, 2016-2017, 2017-2018)
• UEFA Super Cup (2014, 2017)
• FIFA Club World Cup (2008, 2014, 2016, 2017)
• UEFA European Championship (2016)
• UEFA Euros (2016)

Individual Awards

• FIFA Ballon d’Or (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
• UEFA Men’s Player of the Year (2013-2014, 2015-2016, 2016-2017)
• Champions League Forward of the Season (2017-2018)
• UEFA Club Footballer of the Year (2008)
• Barclays Player of the Year (2006-2007, 2007-2008)
• PFA Young Player of the Year (2006-2007)
• PFA Player of the Year (2006-2007, 2007-2008)
• La Liga Best Player (2013-2014)
• La Liga Best Forward (2013-2014)
• La Liga Most Valuable Player (2012-2013)

In Summary: Major facts about cristiano ronaldo

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Born and bred in Madeira , Cristiano Ronaldo is the most famous person to come out of Portugal , as well as the most followed person on Instagram with 446 million followers. To many, he is the best player in the world. Get to know CR7 with these 17 interesting facts you might not know about!

1. Cristiano Ronaldo grew up working class

Cristiano Ronaldo did not come from money. He was born in the Sao Pedro parish of Funchal  and is the fourth and youngest child of an impoverished Portuguese family. His mother was a cook and his dad was a gardener who struggled with alcoholism and died in 2005 from liver failure. In her book “Mother Courage”, Ronaldo’s mother Dolores Aveiro details how she considered terminating her pregnancy with Ronaldo due to poverty and her husband’s issues with alcohol.

2. You can study the sociology of Cristiano Ronaldo at the University of British Columbia Okanagan

In 2015, BC Okanagan Associate Professor Luis LM Aguiar made the media by announcing his Sociology fourth-year course about Cristiano Ronaldo. The professor believed “Ronaldo’s social and cultural appeal transcends football, making him an interesting study”. He told UBC News, “I’m interested in how Ronaldo has been used to construct several discourses about who he is, what makes him distinct as a footballer, what is his relationship to Portugal, Madeira, and his Portuguese identity”. The course addresses issues of identity, nationality, and representation, and discusses the phenomenon of Ronaldo across the Portuguese diaspora.

3. Ronaldo is a billionaire

Not only is Cristiano Ronaldo the richest soccer player in the world, but he is also the first soccer player billionaire. According to Forbes, in 2020 he actually became the first active team-sport athlete to surpass $1 billion in career earnings. He definitely does not live the impoverished life he once did. He owns at least 8 homes and is building a retirement mansion, having a property empire of over  $54 million.  From a limited edition $10.7 million dollar Bugatti Centodieci and a large collection of luxury cars, Ronaldo lives the life of the 1%.

4. He was named after Ronald Reagan

This one is a random one! Cristiano Ronaldo told GQ,  “My parents named me after [Ronald Reagan] because they both liked this name and thought it sounded strong”. He said his “father admired him” way long before Reagan became the President of the United States as he was his favorite actor.

5. CR7’s nickname growing up was Little Bee and Cry Baby

As a kid, Ronaldo was nicknamed “cry baby” by his family and friends as he used to cry when he passed the ball and his friends wouldn’t score, according to his mom. They also called him Little Bee because of how fast he was which remains true to this day.

6. Cristiano has scored over 800 goals in his career

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 807 career goals, making him the highest ever goalscorer in the history of men’s soccer. Lionel Messi is 48 goals away from Ronaldo, but you never know if he will catch up due to their 3-year difference. The previous record-holder was Josef Bican scoring 805 goals between 1931 and 1955.

7. He reached 32.51 km/h in a match against West Ham in 2021

In September of 2021, Ronaldo clocked 32.51 km/h to become the fastest football player to do so in any match, in a game against West Ham. He beat the likes of his Manchester United teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka and West Ham United forward Jarrod Bowen.

8. When Ronaldo jumps, he generates 5 times the power of a cheetah

When Ronaldo jumps in a match, he generates 5 times the power of a cheetah in full flight, allowing him to reach 44 centimeters in the air from a standing start and 78 centimeters with a run-up. This is 7 centimeters more than the average NBA player!

9. He had heart surgery at the age of 15

Cristiano Ronaldo was diagnosed with Tachycardia, a term for a rapid heartbeat of over 100 times per minute. This can lead to stroke or heart failure so, at the age of 15, he underwent heart surgery. His mother told the Daily Mail in 2009 that the doctors “used a sort of laser to cauterize the source of the problem and that “he was operated on in the morning and came out at the end of the afternoon”. He was able to play soccer again within a few days after the surgery.

10. The CR7 Museum in Funchal celebrates his life

Founded in 2013, the CR7 Museum is located in his birthplace in Funchal, Madeira, and celebrates the soccer player’s career and life. At the museum, you will find photos from Cristiano’s childhood up until now, as well as the trophies and medals he won and even soccer balls from matches he played! Above the museum stands a 4-star hotel built in partnership between Ronaldo and Pestana Group called the Pestana CR7 Funchal.

Book Private Cristiano Ronaldo Tour with CR7 Museum

11. He has vowed to never get tattoos

Cristiano Ronaldo has zero tattoos, not even a tiny one! He regularly donates blood and does not want to have to wait months after a tattoo to be able to donate. He is also registered as a bone marrow donor.

12. Cristiano Ronaldo was arrested in 2005 on charges of rape

In 2005, Ronaldo was arrested over the alleged rape of two women at a London hotel. He denied the allegations and the case was dropped by Scotland Yard due to insufficient evidence. He was then accused of allegedly raping a woman in 2009 in Las Vegas, but Ronaldo claimed they had consensual sex. The story only came out in 2017, when the German newspaper Der Spiegel revealed a non-disclosure agreement dating from January 2010 was signed with a payment of $375,000 providing the alleged victim did not go public with the allegation. As no criminal case ever came to a conclusion, Ronaldo has never been found either guilty or acquitted of any rape allegations.

13. He won a libel payout against The Daily Telegraph in 2010

In 2008, the Daily Telegraph claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo put an injured ankled at risk by partying in a Hollywood nightclub. The article said he put down his crutches to dance with models, causing offense and embarrassment. In a libel court case against the paper, the Daily Telegraph said the allegations were false and offered Ronaldo a libel payout that he accepted in 2010. In 2008, he also accepted undisclosed damages from the Sun, which claimed he had been fined for breaking Manchester United’s club rules when using a phone during training. He ended up donating the damages to a charity in Madeira.

14. Cristiano Ronaldo’s legs were insured for over €100 million

In 2009, Real Madrid announced that the team had insured Cristiano Ronaldo’s legal for around €100 million. This is not the most expensive body part insurance in soccer, as Lionel Messi’s left foot is insured at €750 million.

15. He has a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike

As of 2016, Ronaldo has had a lifetime endorsement deal with Nike worth $1 billion. He is the third lifetime deal after LeBron James and Michael Jordan. This might seem expensive but Forbes reported that in 2016, Ronaldo’s social media presence generated $474 million in value for Nike via 329 posts. This was when he had 240 million followers across platforms and today, he has 395 million on Instagram alone, making him the most followed person on the platform.

16. He met his partner Georgina Rodriguez when she was working at Gucci in 2016

Cristiano met Georgina at the Gucci store in Madrid where she was working as a shop assistant. Georgina was 22 years old and Ronaldo was 31 years old. The couple has been together for 6 years and a large family with five children, Cristiano Junior, 11 years old, the twins Eva and Mateo, 4 years old, Alana Martina, 4 years old, and now a baby boy. The baby girl was a twin to a baby boy who tragically passed away at birth in April of 2022.

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thta is so bad i hate him now

why he is the king of soccer.

RONALDO SIUUUUU

why bro he is the best

he really is THE BEST

Ronaldo is number 1

ronaldo is not number one messi HE IS PEOPLE MESSI IS 48 GOALS BEHIND CR7

nah he best girl

cris is on top suiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

Amazing article, this is why Ronaldo is the Greatest of All Time.

cr7 is the goat

CR7 the GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAATTTT! SUUIIIIIIIII!

He is the goat the one and only soap 😂 but fr he is the goat

CR7 is the best football player

This was whery funny facts i loved it Ronlado SIUUUU

HE IS THE BEST, NO ONE CAN BEAT HIM!!!!

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Cristiano Ronaldo facts for kids

• Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of 21:10, 30 December 2023 (UTC).

† Appearances (Goals).

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro GOIH ComM ( born 5 February 1985) is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward .

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Ronaldo has won five Ballon d'Or awards and four European Golden Shoes, the most by a European player. He has won 32 trophies in his career, including seven league titles, five UEFA Champions Leagues , and the UEFA European Championship . He is one of the few players to have made over 1,100 professional career appearances, and has scored over 800 official senior career goals for club and country.

Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017 and the world's most famous athlete by ESPN from 2016 to 2019. Time included him on their list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2014. He is the first footballer and the third sportsman to earn US$1 billion in his career.

Sporting CP

Manchester United

Real Madrid

Return to Manchester United

Arab club champions cup winner, 2001–2007: youth level and senior début, goal celebrations, rivalry with lionel messi, outside football, family, children and relationships, philanthropy, interesting facts about cristiano ronaldo, cristiano ronaldo quotes, international.

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born in the São Pedro parish of Funchal , the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira . He grew up in the nearby parish of Santo António. He is the fourth and youngest child of Maria Dolores dos Santos Viveiros da Aveiro, a cook, and José Dinis Aveiro, a municipal gardener and part-time kit man. He has one older brother, Hugo, and two older sisters, Elma and Liliana Cátia "Katia". Ronaldo grew up in an impoverished Catholic Christian home, sharing a room with all his siblings.

As a child, Ronaldo played for Andorinha from 1992 to 1995, where his father was the kit man, and later spent two years with Nacional. In 1997, aged 12, he went on a three-day trial with Sporting CP , who signed him for a fee of £1,500. After that, he moved from Madeira to Alcochete, near Lisbon , to join Sporting's youth academy.

By age 14, Ronaldo believed he had the ability to play semi-professionally and agreed with his mother to cease his education to focus entirely on football. He was popular with other students at school, but had been expelled after throwing a chair at his teacher, who he said had "disrespected" him. One year later, he was diagnosed with tachycardia , a condition that could have forced him to give up playing football. Ronaldo underwent heart surgery. He was discharged from the hospital hours after the procedure and resumed training a few days later.

Club career

Ronaldo began his senior career with Sporting CP , being promoted from Sporting's youth team by first-team manager László Bölöni. He became the first player to play for the club's under-16, under-17 and under-18 teams, the B team and the first team, all within a single season.

A year later, on 29 September 2002, Ronaldo made his debut in the Primeira Liga . He left the club in 2003, after signing with Manchester United . A decade after his departure from the club, in April 2013, Sporting honoured Ronaldo by selecting him to become their 100,000th member.

Ronaldo became the first Portuguese player to sign for the club.

His transfer fee made him, at the time, the most expensive teenager in English football history. Although he requested the number 28, his number at Sporting, he received the squad number 7 shirt, which had previously been worn by such United players as George Best , Eric Cantona and David Beckham . Wearing the number 7 became an extra source of motivation for Ronaldo. A key element in his development during his time in England proved to be the MU coach Alex Ferguson , of whom he later said: "He's been my father in sport, one of the most important and influential factors in my career."

Ronaldo scored his first goal for Manchester United with a free-kick in a 3–0 win over Portsmouth on 1 November. He ended his first season in English football by scoring the opening goal in United's 3–0 win over Millwall in the 2004 FA Cup Final, earning his first trophy.

Ronaldo scored United's 1,000th Premier League goal on 29 October 2004, their only goal in a 4–1 loss to Middlesbrough . A few weeks later, he signed a new contract with the club that extended his previous deal by two years to 2010.

Ronaldo scored his first (and only till 2022) hat-trick for United in a 6–0 win against Newcastle United on 12 January 2008.

His 31 league goals earned him the Premier League Golden Boot , as well as the European Golden Shoe, which made him the first winger to win the latter award. He additionally received the PFA Players' Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards for the second consecutive season.

With his 2008 Ballon d'Or and 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year, Ronaldo became United's first Ballon d'Or winner since Best in 1968, and the first Premier League player to be named the FIFA World Player of the Year.

Ahead of the 2008–09 season, on 7 July, Ronaldo underwent ankle surgery, which kept him out of action for 10 weeks. Following his return, he scored his 100th goal in all competitions for United with the first of two free kicks in a 5–0 win against Stoke City on 15 November, which meant he had now scored against all 19 opposition teams in the Premier League at the time. At the close of 2008, Ronaldo helped United win the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup in Japan.

Ronaldo ended his time in England with nine trophies. His final goal for United came on 10 May 2009 with a free kick in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford .

Ahead of the 2009–10 season, Ronaldo joined Real Madrid for a world record transfer fee at the time of £80 million (€94 million). His contract, which ran until 2015, was worth €11 million per year and contained a €1 billion buy-out clause. At least 80,000 fans attended his presentation at the Santiago Bernabéu , surpassing the 25-year record of 75,000 fans who had welcomed Diego Maradona at Napoli .

Since club captain Raúl already wore the number 7 (the number Ronaldo wore at United), Ronaldo received the number 9 shirt, which was presented to him by former Madrid player Alfredo Di Stéfano .

Following Raúl's departure, Ronaldo was given the number 7 shirt for Madrid before the 2010–11 season. For the first time in his career, he scored four goals in a single match during a 6–1 rout against Racing Santander on 23 October. Despite his performances, he did not make the top three in the inaugural 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or.

During a historic series of four Clásicos against rivals Barcelona in April 2011, Ronaldo scored twice to equal his personal record of 42 goals in all competitions. His two goals in the last match of the season against Almería made him the first player in La Liga to score 40 goals. In addition to the Pichichi Trophy, Ronaldo won the European Golden Shoe for a second time, becoming the first player to win the award in different leagues.

During the following season, Ronaldo achieved a new personal best of 60 goals in all competitions. He finished as runner-up to Messi for the 2011 FIFA Ballon d'Or. Ronaldo helped Madrid win their first league title in four years with a record 100 points. His final league goal of the season, against Mallorca, took his total to 46 goals, four short of the new record set by Messi, though he became the first player to score against all 19 opposition teams in a single La Liga season.

Ronaldo began the 2012–13 season by lifting the 2012 Supercopa de España, his third trophy in Spain.

Following the 2012–13 winter break, Ronaldo captained Madrid for the first time in an official match. He became the first non-Spanish player in 60 years to captain Madrid in El Clasico on 30 January, a match which also marked his 500th club appearance.

At the start of the 2013–14 season , Ronaldo signed a new contract that extended his stay by three years to 2018, with a salary of €17 million net, making him briefly the highest-paid player in football.

He was joined at the club by winger Gareth Bale , whose world record transfer fee of €100 million surpassed the fee Madrid had paid for Ronaldo four years prior. Together with striker Karim Benzema , they formed an attacking trio popularly dubbed "BBC", an acronym of Bale, Benzema and Cristiano, and a play on the name of the British public service broadcaster , the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). He ended 2013 with 69 goals in 59 appearances, his highest year-end goal tally. He received the 2013 FIFA Ballon d'Or, an amalgamation of the Ballon d'Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year award, for the first time in his career.

Concurrently with his individual achievements, Ronaldo enjoyed his greatest team success in Spain to date, as he helped Madrid win La Décima , their tenth European Cup.

During the 2014–15 season, Ronaldo set a new personal best of 61 goals. After winning the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup, Ronaldo received the 2014 Ballon d'Or, joining Johan Cruyff , Michel Platini and Marco van Basten as a three-time recipient.

At the start of his seventh season at Madrid, the 2015–16 campaign , Ronaldo became the club's all-time top scorer, first in the league and then in all competitions. For his efforts during the season, he received the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award for a second time.

Ronaldo missed Madrid's first three matches of the 2016–17 season. On 15 December, Ronaldo scored his 500th club career goal in the 2–0 win over Club América in the semi-finals of the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup. He won the 2016 Ballon d'Or, his fourth, and the inaugural 2016 The Best FIFA Men's Player, a revival of the former FIFA World Player of the Year, largely owing to his success with Portugal in winning Euro 2016 .

On 23 October 2017, his performances throughout the year saw him awarded The Best FIFA Men's Player award for the second consecutive year. On 7 December, Ronaldo won the 2017 Ballon d'Or, receiving his fifth-time award on the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

On 16 December, he scored a free kick winner, as Madrid won their second Club World Cup in a row by beating Grêmio in the final. On 3 March 2018, he scored two goals in a 3–1 home win over Getafe, his first being his 300th La Liga goal in his 286th appearance, making him the fastest player to reach this landmark and only the second player to do so after Messi. On 18 March, he reached his 50th career hat-trick, scoring four goals in a 6–3 win against Girona.

Ronaldo left Madeid for Italian club Juventus in July 2018.

On 10 July 2018, Ronaldo signed a four-year contract with Italian club Juventus after completing a €100 million transfer, which included an additional €12 million in other fees and solidarity contributions to Ronaldo's youth clubs. The transfer was the highest ever for a player over 30 years old, and the highest paid by an Italian club. Upon signing, Ronaldo cited his need for a new challenge as his rationale for departing Madrid, but later attributed the transfer to the lack of support he felt was shown by club president Florentino Pérez .

Ronaldo won his first trophy with the club on 16 January 2019, the 2018 Supercoppa Italiana, after he scored the only goal from a header against AC Milan . On 27 April 2019, he scored his 600th club goal, the equaliser in a 1–1 away draw against Derby d'Italia rivals Inter Milan . Ending his first Serie A campaign with 21 goals and 8 assists, Ronaldo won the inaugural Serie A award for Most Valuable Player.

On 22 February, Ronaldo played in his 1,000th senior professional game, a 2–1 away win against SPAL.

On 4 July, he scored his 25th league goal of the season from a free kick in a 4–1 home win over rivals Torino, becoming the first Juventus player to achieve this milestone since Omar Sívori in 1961. He also reached 30 league goals for the season, becoming just the third player (after Felice Borel in 1934 and John Hansen in 1952) in Juventus's history to reach that milestone in a season. Moreover, he became the oldest player, at the age of 35 years and 166 days, to score over 30 goals in one of the five top European leagues since Ronnie Rooke with Arsenal in 1948.

Ronaldo played his 100th match in all competitions for Juventus on 13 December 2020. With Juventus's victory in the 2021 Coppa Italia Final on 19 May, Ronaldo became the first player in history to win every major domestic trophy in England, Spain and Italy. Ronaldo ended the season with 29 league goals, winning the Capocannoniere award for highest goalscorer and becoming the first footballer to finish as top scorer in the English, Spanish and Italian leagues.

On 26 August, it was confirmed that City's rivals Manchester United, Ronaldo's former club, were in advanced talks to sign him.

On 27 August 2021, Manchester United announced they had reached an agreement with Juventus to re-sign Ronaldo. The transfer was for an initial £12.85 million, with a two-year contract plus an optional year, and was confirmed on 31 August. Ronaldo was given the number 7 shirt after Edinson Cavani agreed to switch to 21. The first 24 hours of Ronaldo's shirt sales was reported to have broken the all-time record following a transfer, overtaking Messi after his move to Paris Saint-Germain .

On 11 September, Ronaldo made his second debut at Old Trafford, scoring the opening two goals in a 4–1 league victory against Newcastle United .

On 16 April 2022, Ronaldo scored his 50th club hat-trick in a 3–2 win over Norwich City . On 23 April, he scored his 100th Premier League goal in a 3–1 defeat to Arsenal. After scoring in the following matches against Chelsea and Brentford , he was named the Premier League Player of the Month for April.

He finished the season with 24 goals in all competitions, being named in the Premier League Team of the Year and the winner of Manchester United's Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award, given to the club's best player from the previous season; however, with United finishing in a disappointing sixth place and qualifying for the UEFA Europa League , Ronaldo went trophyless for the first time since 2010.

In 2022, after growing dissatisfaction with the club's management, Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes began negotiating with various clubs for a transfer on loan or on a free transfer. However, due to his age, overall cost of a transfer and high wages demands, multiple European clubs rejected the opportunity to sign him.

Having failed to secure a transfer, Ronaldo lost his place in the starting lineup to Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial , only featuring in Europa League matches. On 14 November, an interview with Piers Morgan was published, where Ronaldo said that he felt "betrayed" by the club managers. Ronaldo stated there was "no evolution" in the club itself since the departure of former manager Alex Ferguson in 2013, despite expecting changes in "technology, infrastructure".

Following the interview, which aired in two-parts on 16 and 17 November, United began seeking legal action over whether Ronaldo had breached his contract, and were looking to terminate his contract. On 22 November, Ronaldo's contract was terminated by mutual agreement with immediate effect.

On 30 December 2022, Saudi club Al Nassr reached an agreement for Ronaldo to join the club effective 1 January 2023, signing a contract until 2025. As reported by Fabrizio Romano of The Guardian , Ronaldo received the highest football salary in history, worth €200 million per year; this included an annual guaranteed football salary of €90 million, with commercial and sponsorship deals included bringing his total annual salary to €200 million. He was also reportedly paid a signing-on bonus in the region of €100 million. According to Romano, Ronaldo rejected a move to Major League Soccer club Sporting Kansas City to join Al Nassr.

Ronaldo's signing for Al-Nassr resulted in increased popularity both domestically and internationally of the Saudi Pro League, with various European players such as Karim Benzema , Sadio Mané , N'Golo Kanté , Rúben Neves , Riyad Mahrez , Roberto Firmino and Neymar moving to the Saudi Pro League during the summer transfer window, crediting Ronaldo as one of the main factors for moving to the league.

He scored his first goal of the 2023–24 season in a 4–1 win over Union Monastirienne in the Arab Club Champions Cup on 31 July. In the next Arab Club Champions Cup fixture on 3 August, Ronaldo scored a late equaliser against Zamalek , to help his side secure a 1–1 draw and qualify for the quarter-finals in second place of their group. In the semi-finals on 9 August, Ronaldo scored the only goal of a win over Al-Shorta, converting a penalty to help Al Nassr reach their first ever Arab Club Champions Cup final. In the final on 12 August, Ronaldo scored both goals for a ten-man Al Nassr as they defeated rivals Al-Hilal 2–1 after extra time to win the competition for the first time in their history. Ronaldo was awarded the competition's top scorer award having scored six goals in the competition.

On 18 August, Ronaldo made his first league appearance of the season in a 2–0 defeat to Al-Taawoun, and scored his first hat-trick of the season in a 5–0 away win against Al-Fateh a week later. On 29 August, Ronaldo scored twice and assisted once in a 4–0 win against rivals Al-Shabab. Ronaldo was awarded the SPL Player of the Month award for August after scoring five goals and assisting twice. On 2 September, he scored a goal in Al-Nassr's 5–1 away win against Al-Hazem, his 850th senior career goal. On 19 September, Ronaldo made his AFC Champions League debut, starting in a 2–0 win over Persepolis , becoming the first player in football history to record 1000 career games unbeaten (776 wins and 224 draws). Ronaldo received the SPL Player of the Month award for a second consecutive month after recording five goals and three assists in September. On 2 October, he scored his first AFC Champions League goal in the home fixture against Istiklol, the equaliser in an eventual 3–1 win.

International career

Ronaldo began his international career with Portugal under-15 in 2001. During his international youth career, Ronaldo would represent the under-15, under-17, under-20, under-21 and under-23 national sides, amassing 34 youth caps and scoring 18 goals overall.

Ronaldo made his international debut for Portugal in 2003 at the age of 18. One day after his 22nd birthday, Ronaldo captained Portugal for the first time in a friendly game against Brazil on 6 February 2007.

He has earned over 190 caps, making him Portugal's most-capped player . With more than 100 goals at international level, he is also the all-time top goalscorer .

Ronaldo has played in and scored at 11 major tournaments; he scored his first international goal at Euro 2004 , where he helped Portugal reach the final. In 2015, Ronaldo was named the best Portuguese player of all time by the Portuguese Football Federation .

The following year, he led Portugal to their first major tournament title at Euro 2016 , and received the Silver Boot as the second-highest goalscorer of the tournament. He also led them to a third-place finish at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup .

In the final against hosts France, Ronaldo was forced off after just 25 minutes following a challenge from Dimitri Payet , despite multiple treatments and attempts to play on, he was stretchered off the pitch and replaced. During extra time, substitute Eder scored in the 109th minute to earn Portugal a 1–0 victory. As team captain, Ronaldo lifted the trophy in celebration of his country's first triumph in a major tournament. He was awarded the Silver Boot as the joint second-highest goalscorer, with three goals and three assists, and was named to the team of the tournament for the third time in his career.

On 15 June 2018, Ronaldo became the oldest player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup match, helping Portugal secure a 3–3 draw against Spain (his third goal a 30-yard curling free kick with two minutes remaining) in their opening match. In doing so, he became the first Portuguese player to score a goal in four World Cups and one of four players of any nationality to do so. On 30 June, Portugal were eliminated following a 2–1 defeat to Uruguay in the last 16. For his performances in the tournament, Ronaldo was named in the World Cup Dream Team .

On 8 September 2020, Ronaldo scored his 100th and 101st international goals in a 2–0 away win over Sweden in a 2020–21 UEFA Nations League match, becoming only the second male player ever to achieve this milestone (after Ali Daei of Iran) and the first in Europe.

On 15 June 2021, Ronaldo scored twice in Portugal's first game of Euro 2020, a 3–0 win against Hungary in Budapest . This took him to a total of eleven European Championship goals, two clear of Michel Platini , as the all-time top goalscorer in the competition's history. He also became the first player to score at five European Championships, and in eleven consecutive tournaments.

This also made Ronaldo the oldest player to score two goals in a match in the European Championship, and the oldest player to score for Portugal at a major tournament.

On 23 June, he scored two penalties in Portugal's 2–2 draw with France in their final group stage match, equalling Daei's record of 109 international goals. On 27 June, Portugal were eliminated following a 1–0 loss against Belgium in the round of 16. Ronaldo finished the tournament with five goals (tied with Czech Patrik Schick ) and one assist, earning him the Golden Boot.

On 9 October 2022, with his 181st international appearance, he also overtook Sergio Ramos 's record for the most international caps received by a European player. In the following match against Luxembourg on 12 October, he became the first player to score 10 hat-tricks in men's international football.

Player profile

Ronaldo is capable of playing on either wing as well as through the centre of the pitch. He is very strong with both feet. Ronaldo became noted for his dribbling and an array of tricks and feints, such as the step overs and so-called 'chops' that became his trademark; he has also been known to use the flip–flap.

He has also increasingly played a creative role, often dropping deep to pick up the ball, participate in the build-up of plays and create chances for his teammates, courtesy of his vision and passing ability.

Ronaldo has adopted several goal celebrations throughout his career, including one particular celebration which gained widespread coverage in the media, when he squatted and stared directly into a camera on the sidelines of the pitch with his hand on his chin. After scoring a goal, he usually celebrates with a "storming jump" and "turn", before "landing in spread-eagled fashion" into his "signature power stance", while usually simultaneously exclaiming "Sí" (Spanish and Italian for "yes"). This trademark celebration has been dubbed the "Siu" in the media.

Both players have scored in multiple UEFA Champions League finals and have regularly broken the 50-goal barrier in a single season. Sports journalists and pundits regularly weigh the individual merits of both players in an attempt to argue who they believe is the best player in modern football or in the history of the game. Part of the debate revolves around the contrasting personalities of the two players, as Ronaldo is sometimes depicted as an arrogant and theatrical showoff, while Messi is portrayed as a shy, humble character.

"It's part of my life now. People are bound to compare us. He tries to do his best for his club and for his national team, as I do, and there is a degree of rivalry with both of us trying to do the best for the teams we represent."

Ronaldo has signed many sponsorship deals for consumer products, including sportswear, football boots; since November 2012, Ronaldo has worn the Nike Mercurial Vapor personalized CR7 edition, soft drinks, clothing, automotive lubricants, financial services, electronics, and video games. Ronaldo was featured as the cover star of EA Sports' FIFA video game FIFA 18 and was heavily involved in the game's promotion. His "Sii" goal celebration features in the FIFA series, accompanied with his own voiceover. He was also the face of Pro Evolution Soccer , appearing on the covers of the 2008, 2012 and 2013 editions of the game.

With earnings of €720 million (£615 million) from 2010 to 2019, Ronaldo was ranked second in Forbes list of The Highest-Paid Athletes Of The Decade, with only boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. earning more. Forbes twice ranked Ronaldo first on its list of the world's highest-paid football players; his combined income from salaries, bonuses and endorsements was $73 million in 2013–14 and $79 million in 2014–15. He is the first footballer and only the third sportsman to earn $1 billion in their career.

Ronaldo has established a strong online presence. The most popular sportsperson on social media, he counted over 500 million total followers across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by February 2021, making him the first person to pass half a billion followers. The most-followed person on Facebook (148 million), the most-followed on Instagram (310 million) and the most-followed sportsperson on Twitter (92 million), his sponsors earned $936 million in media value across his accounts between June 2016 to June 2017. Ronaldo has released two mobile apps. In December 2011, he launched an iPhone game called Heads Up with Cristiano , created by developer RockLive, and in December 2013, he launched Viva Ronaldo , a dedicated social networking website and app. Computer security company McAfee produced a 2012 report ranking footballers by the probability of an internet search for their name leading to an unsafe website, with Ronaldo's name first on the list.

Ronaldo has been the subject of several works. His autobiography, titled Moments , was published in December 2007. His sponsor Castrol produced the television film Ronaldo: Tested to the Limit , in which he was physically and mentally tested in several areas; his physical performance was consequently subject to scrutiny by world media upon the film's release in September 2011. Cristiano Ronaldo: The World at His Feet , a documentary narrated by actor Benedict Cumberbatch , was released via Vimeo in June 2014. A documentary film directed by Anthony Wonke about his life and career, titled Ronaldo , was released on 9 November 2015.

Demand for a replica Ronaldo shirt has been high throughout his career. In 2008, Ronaldo's number 7 Manchester United shirt was the best-selling Premier League sports product. In 2015, Ronaldo's number 7 Real Madrid shirt was the second best-selling worldwide, after Messi's number 10 Barcelona shirt. In 2018, within 24 hours of his number 7 Juventus shirt being released, over 520,000 had been sold, with $62.4 million generated in one day.

Ronaldo opened a fashion boutique under the name CR7 (his initials and shirt number) on the island of Madeira in 2006 and opened a second in Lisbon in 2008. In partnership with Scandinavian manufacturer JBS Textile Group and the New York fashion designer Richard Chai, Ronaldo co-designed a range of underwear and sock line, released in November 2013. He expanded his CR7 fashion brand by launching a line of premium shirts and shoes in July 2014. In September 2015, Ronaldo released his own fragrance, "Legacy", in a partnership with Eden Parfums.

Personal life

Ronaldo's father, José, died at age 52 in September 2005 when Ronaldo was 20.

Ronaldo has had six children. He first became a father to a son, who was born on 17 June 2010 in the United States. He stated that he has full custody of the child and would not be publicly revealing the identity of the mother per an agreement with her. In January 2015, Ronaldo announced that his five-year relationship with Russian model Irina Shayk had ended.

Ronaldo became a father to twins, born on 8 June 2017 in the United States via surrogacy . He is currently in a relationship with Argentine-born Spanish model Georgina Rodríguez, who gave birth to a daughter on 12 November 2017. The couple expected their second pair of twins in 2022. The male twin died during childbirth while the female twin survived.

Ronaldo has said that he does not drink alcohol. He also does not have any tattoos as he regularly donates blood and bone marrow .

Ronaldo has made contributions to various charitable causes throughout his career. Television footage of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami showed an eight-year-old boy survivor named Martunis wearing a Portuguese football shirt who was stranded for 19 days after his family was killed. Following this, Ronaldo visited Aceh , Indonesia, to raise funds for rehabilitation and reconstruction. After accepting undisclosed damages from a libel case against The Sun newspaper in 2008, Ronaldo donated the damages to a charity in Madeira . In 2009, Ronaldo donated £100,000 to the hospital that saved his mother's life in Madeira following her battle with cancer, so that they could build a cancer centre on the island. In support of the victims of the 2010 Madeira flood, Ronaldo pledged to play in a charity match in Madeira between Primeira Liga club Porto and players from Madeiran-based clubs Marítimo and Nacional.

In 2012, Ronaldo and his agent paid for specialist treatment for a nine-year-old Canarian boy with apparently terminal cancer. In December 2012, Ronaldo joined FIFA's "11 for Health" programme to raise awareness amongst kids of how to steer clear of conditions including HIV, malaria, and obesity. In January 2013, Ronaldo became Save the Children 's new Global Artist Ambassador, in which he hopes to help fight child hunger and obesity. In March 2013, Ronaldo agreed to be the ambassador for The Mangrove Care Forum in Indonesia, an organisation aiming to raise awareness of mangrove conservation.

Ronaldo was named the world's most charitable sportsperson in 2015 after donating £5 million to the relief effort after the earthquake in Nepal which killed over 8,000 people. In June 2016, Ronaldo donated the entirety of his €600,000 Champions League bonus after Real Madrid won the Champions League. In August, Ronaldo launched CR7Selfie, a selfie app for charity to help Save the Children that lets participants take a selfie with him in one of several different outfits and poses.

• He can jump higher than the average NBA . Ronaldo can reach 78 cm (30.7 inches) off the floor.
• In 2013, Ronaldo opened a museum, The Museu CR7, at Funchal in Madeira in his honor. It contains Ronaldo’s trophies that he has won over the years; the museum is an official sponsor of the local football team União da Madeira.
• In 2007, C.D. Nacional renamed its youth campus Cristiano Ronaldo Campus Futebol (Cristiano Ronaldo Football Campus).
• In January 2014, President of Portugal Aníbal Cavaco Silva raised Ronaldo to the rank of Grand Officer of the Order of Prince Henry .
• In 2009, Real Madrid announced that the team had insured Cristiano Ronaldo’s legs for around 100 million euros.
• In June 2010, Ronaldo became the fourth footballer (after Steven Gerrard , Pelé, and David Beckham) to be represented as a waxwork at Madame Tussauds London .
• In June 2015, astronomers led by David Sobral from Lisbon and Leiden discovered a galaxy which they named Cosmos Redshift 7 (CR7) in tribute to Ronaldo.
• On 23 July 2016, following Portugal's triumph at Euro 2016, Madeira Airport in Funchal was renamed as Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport .
• There are at least 3 statues and busts of Crisitano Ronaldo in the world: his bronze bust is installed at Madeira Airport, one full-size statue is Madeira and the other giant one is in Calangute, Goa, weighing about 410 kg.

• "In your life you do not win without sacrifices and you must take risks"
• "I'm living a dream I never want to wake up from."
• "Your love makes me strong, your hate makes me unstoppable."
• "If you think you’re perfect already, then you never will be."
• "I see football as an art and all players are artists."
• "If you are a top artist, the last thing you would do is paint a picture somebody else has already painted."
• "If you don't believe you are the best, then you will never achieve all that you are capable of."

Career statistics

• Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira: 2002
• Premier League : 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09
• FA Cup : 2003–04
• Football League Cup : 2005–06, 2008–09
• FA Community Shield : 2007
• UEFA Champions League : 2007–08
• FIFA Club World Cup : 2008
• La Liga : 2011–12, 2016–17
• Copa del Rey : 2010–11, 2013–14
• Supercopa de España : 2012, 2017
• UEFA Champions League: 2013–14 , 2015–16 , 2016–17 , 2017–18
• UEFA Super Cup : 2014, 2017
• FIFA Club World Cup: 2014, 2016, 2017
• Serie A : 2018–19, 2019–20
• Coppa Italia : 2020–21
• Supercoppa Italiana : 2018, 2020
• Arab Club Champions Cup: 2023

Portugal U20

• Toulon Tournament: 2003
• UEFA European Championship : 2016
• UEFA Nations League : 2018–19
• FIFA Ballon d'Or/ Ballon d'Or : 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017
• FIFA World Player of the Year: 2008
• The Best FIFA Men's Player: 2016, 2017
• The Best FIFA Special Award for Outstanding Career Achievement: 2021
• UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award: 2007–08, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17
• UEFA Champions League top scorer: 2007–08, 2012–13 , 2013–14 , 2014–15 , 2015–16 , 2016–17 , 2017–18
• European Golden Shoe: 2007–08, 2010–11, 2013–14, 2014–15
• Golden Foot: 2020
• FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2016
• FIFA Puskás Award : 2009
• UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 2004 ; 2012 ; 2016
• UEFA European Championship Golden Boot: 2020
• Premier League Player of the Season: 2006–07, 2007–08
• La Liga Best Player: 2013–14
• Serie A Footballer of the Year: 2019, 2020
• Premier League Golden Boot : 2007–08
• Pichichi Trophy: 2010–11, 2013–14 , 2014–15
• Capocannoniere: 2020–21
• FPF Portuguese Player of the Year : 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022

• Cordão Autonómico de Distinção
• This page was last modified on 9 February 2024, at 09:05. Suggest an edit .