Lasting Legacy of Ronaldinho: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Ronaldinho—a timeline of influence.

Ronaldinho, a Brazilian former professional footballer, is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. Renowned for his exceptional dribbling, free-kick accuracy, and creative flair, he won numerous individual accolades, including two FIFA World Player of the Year awards and a Ballon d'Or. He is also the only player to have won a World Cup, a Copa América, a Confederations Cup, a Champions League, a Copa Libertadores and a Ballon d'Or. As a global icon, Ronaldinho was known for his captivating style of play and ability to both score and create goals.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

2004: Inclusion in FIFA 100 List

In 2004, Ronaldinho was named by Pelé in the FIFA 100 list of the world's greatest living players.

2006: Richard Williams of The Guardian described Ronaldinho as a "genius"

In 2006, Richard Williams of The Guardian described Ronaldinho as a genius.

2006: Creation of Ronaldinho Gaúcho Comic Strip

In 2006, during the FIFA World Cup in Germany, the Ronaldinho Gaúcho Brazilian celebrity comic strip by Mauricio de Sousa was created, featuring a fictionalized version of Ronaldinho as a child.

December 2007: Wax Sculpture Unveiled

In December 2007, a wax sculpture of Ronaldinho was unveiled at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong.

2009: World Player of the Decade

In 2009, World Soccer magazine voted Ronaldinho World Player of the Decade 2000s.

2010: Edgar Davids' Statement

In 2010, Ronaldinho's former Barcelona teammate, Edgar Davids, stated that Ronaldinho was the best player he ever played with, citing his exceptional skills and tricks.

2012: New Bee Species Named After Ronaldinho

In 2012, two Brazilian entomologists named a new species of bee, Eulaema quadragintanovem, after Ronaldinho, referencing his jersey number 49 at Atlético Mineiro. He chose this number as an homage to his mother, born in 1949.

2014: Animated Series Acquisition

In 2014, due to the FIFA World Cup being held in Brazil, the Ronaldinho Gaúcho short animated series was acquired by the paid children's channel Gloob.

March 2015: Facebook Popularity

In March 2015, Ronaldinho was the sixth most popular sportsperson on Facebook, with 31 million Facebook fans.

2015: End of Ronaldinho Gaúcho Comic Strip

In 2015, the Ronaldinho Gaúcho comic strip by Mauricio de Sousa ended its run.

January 2018: Retirement Commentary by Sid Lowe

In January 2018, Sid Lowe commented on Ronaldinho's retirement.

January 2018: Confirms Retirement from Football

On January 16, 2018, Ronaldinho officially retired from football, as confirmed by his brother and agent. A celebration was planned after the Russia World Cup. He retired having won the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and the Ballon d'Or.

2019: Willian and Juninho's Statements

In 2019, his compatriot Willian rated Ronaldinho as the greatest player of all time, while Juninho described him as the most skillful player he had ever seen.