History of Ronaldo (Brazilian footballer) in Timeline
Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, widely recognized as Ronaldo or Ronaldo Nazário, is a Brazilian retired professional footballer renowned for his role as a striker. He holds ownership of the Brazilian Série A club Cruzeiro and is both owner and president of the Segunda División club Real Valladolid. He is considered one of the greatest players of all time, earning nicknames like "O Fenômeno" and "R9." His multifaceted striker abilities revolutionized the position, influencing a generation of aspiring strikers. His impressive individual achievements include being named FIFA World Player of the Year three times and securing two Ballon d'Or awards.
September 1976: Birth and Early Life
Born on 18 September 1976 in Itaguaí, Ronaldo was the third child of Nélio Nazário de Lima Snr. and Sônia dos Santos Barata. His parents separated when he was 11, and he soon dropped out of school to pursue football.
September 1976: Birth of Ronaldo
Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, known as Ronaldo, was born on 18 September 1976 in Itaguaí, Brazil. His early life in a suburb of Rio de Janeiro would eventually lead him to become one of the greatest footballers of all time.
1988: Romário's PSV Influence
Brazilian forward Romário, who played for PSV from 1988 to 1993, influenced Ronaldo's decision to join PSV after the 1994 World Cup.
May 1993: Professional Debut
Ronaldo made his professional debut for Cruzeiro on 25 May 1993 against Caldense in the Minas Gerais State Championship. His first senior goal came during a friendly in Portugal.
October 1993: First Senior Hat-trick
On 5 October 1993, Ronaldo scored his first senior career hat-trick against Colo-Colo in the Supercopa Libertadores, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with 8 goals.
November 1993: Notable Hat-trick
On 7 November 1993, Ronaldo scored five goals in a 6–0 win for Cruzeiro against Bahia in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, becoming the youngest South-American to score a league hat-trick, only behind Pelé.
1993: Copa do Brasil Win
Ronaldo led Cruzeiro to their first Copa do Brasil in 1993, scoring a total of 44 goals in 47 games over two seasons.
1993: Romário's Departure from PSV
Romário left PSV in 1993, paving the way for Ronaldo to join the club following his advice.
March 1994: International Debut for Brazil
Ronaldo's journey with the Brazilian national team began on March 23, 1994, when he made his international debut in a friendly match against Argentina in Recife.
May 1994: First Senior Goal for Brazil
On May 4, 1994, Ronaldo celebrated a significant milestone in his international career by scoring his first senior goal for Brazil during a friendly match against Iceland, which ended in a 3-0 victory for Brazil.
August 1994: PSV Debut
On 28 August 1994, Ronaldo scored ten minutes into his debut for PSV against Vitesse. He also scored a brace on his home debut against Go Ahead Eagles and ended the season with 30 league goals.
1994: Career Beginnings
Ronaldo started his professional football career at Cruzeiro in 1994, before moving to PSV Eindhoven after the 1994 World Cup. Despite being selected for the World Cup squad at just 17, he did not play in any games.
1994: Minas Gerais State Championship
In 1994, Ronaldo helped Cruzeiro win the Minas Gerais State Championship, continuing his impressive goal-scoring form.
1994: 1994 FIFA World Cup Winner
At age 17, Ronaldo was the youngest member of the Brazilian squad that won the 1994 FIFA World Cup, though he did not play in any matches.
1995: Eredivisie Top Scorer
Ronaldo emerged as the top scorer in the Eredivisie league in 1995 while playing for PSV.
1995: Copa América Debut
Ronaldo represented Brazil in the 1995 Copa América, where the team finished as runners-up, marking his first appearance in this prestigious South American tournament.
July 1996: World Record Transfer to Barcelona
In July 1996, Ronaldo joined Barcelona for a then-world record fee of $19.5 million. This move highlighted his rising status as a global football star.
October 1996: Unforgettable Goal Against Compostela
On October 11, 1996, Ronaldo scored a memorable goal against Compostela, dribbling past multiple defenders from his own half before calmly finishing. This goal became iconic, showcasing his exceptional skill and control.
1996: Olympic Bronze Medalist
Ronaldo, once again using the nickname Ronaldinho to avoid confusion with his teammate, Ronaldo Guiaro, was part of the Brazilian team that secured the bronze medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
1996: Ronaldo's Impressive Debut Season at PSV
In 1996, during his first year at PSV, a young Ronaldo impressed observers with his speed, dribbling skills, and remarkable upper body strength. He was even dubbed the "first PlayStation footballer" for his seemingly computer-generated style of play.
1996: Ronaldo Signs Long-Term Deal with Nike
Ronaldo inked a 10-year contract with Nike in 1996, along with a lifetime endorsement deal exceeding $180 million. This partnership signified his burgeoning global stardom and cemented his relationship with the brand.
1996: UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Victory and Supercopa de España
Ronaldo helped Barcelona secure the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup title in 1996, scoring the decisive goal in the final. Barcelona also triumphed in the 1996 Supercopa de España.
1996: Nike Commercial: "Good vs Evil"
In 1996, Ronaldo starred in Nike's "Good vs Evil" commercial, a gladiatorial game set in a Roman amphitheater where he joined football legends like Paolo Maldini and Luís Figo to defend "the beautiful game" against a team of demons.
1996: FIFA World Player of the Year
In 1996, Ronaldo joined Barcelona for a then world record transfer fee and was named the FIFA World Player of the Year, becoming the youngest recipient of the award at 20 years old.
January 1997: Hailed as the "Next Great" in Football
By January 1997, at the age of 20, Ronaldo's extraordinary talent led many to believe he was the next legend in football, drawing comparisons to greats like Pelé, Maradona, Cruyff, and Van Basten.
1997: Copa América Victory and Confederations Cup Triumph
1997 was a year of significant achievements for Ronaldo on the international stage. He played a key role in Brazil's victories in both the Copa América, where he was named player of the tournament, and the FIFA Confederations Cup, where his performance, including a hat-trick against Australia in the final, helped Brazil win their first-ever Confederations Cup title.
1997: Ballon d'Or and Inter Milan Transfer
In 1997, Ronaldo moved to Inter Milan for another world record transfer fee, becoming the first player since Maradona to break the world transfer record twice. He also won the 1997 Ballon d'Or, making him the youngest recipient of the award at 21.
1997: World Record Transfer to Inter Milan
In 1997, Ronaldo's time at Barcelona ended due to contract disputes, and he moved to Inter Milan for a then-world record fee of $27 million. This move made him the second player, after Diego Maradona, to break the world transfer record twice.
1997: Ronaldo Begins Relationship With Susana Werner
Ronaldo met Susana Werner on the set of the Brazilian telenovela Malhação. They began a relationship and lived together until 1999.
1997: 1997 Copa América Winner
Ronaldo won the 1997 Copa América with Brazil, where he was named the player of the tournament.
1997: La Liga Top Scorer and European Golden Shoe
Ronaldo's exceptional scoring continued in 1997 as he became La Liga's top scorer with 34 goals in 37 games, earning him the prestigious European Golden Shoe award.
1998: Ronaldo's Prime at Inter Milan
In 1998, Ronaldo was considered by many to be the most dangerous striker in the world. His speed, strength, and skill made him nearly unstoppable. That same year, Ronaldo went head to head in a high-profile matchup with Alessandro Nesta in the UEFA Cup final.
1998: Controversial Pirelli Commercial
Ronaldo's iconic goal celebration with outstretched arms was adapted for a 1998 Pirelli commercial. The commercial depicted him replacing Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, causing controversy due to its religious implications.
1998: Serie A Dominance and Global Recognition
Ronaldo adapted quickly to Italian football, winning the Serie A Footballer of the Year award in 1998 after scoring 25 goals. He further cemented his place as the world's best striker after winning the FIFA World Cup and being named player of the tournament.
1998: Nike Unveils Mercurial R9 Boots
Nike launched the original Nike Mercurial R9 boots in 1998, specifically designed for Ronaldo. These boots became synonymous with his speed, skill, and electrifying performances.
1998: Nike Commercial with Brazil National Team
Ronaldo was featured in a Nike commercial set in an airport in 1998 alongside Brazilian football stars, including Romário and Roberto Carlos.
1998: Preparing for the World Cup
In 1998, Ronaldo participated in the Tournoi de France, a friendly tournament that served as a preparation event for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Brazil finished the tournament as runners-up, and Ronaldo made his mark by scoring a goal during the competition.
1998: The Rise of Ronaldo
By the time the 1998 World Cup arrived, Ronaldo had established himself as a rising star in the world of football. His unique combination of power, athleticism, and skill made him a joy to watch and earned him a reputation as a phenomenal talent.
1998: Playing for Both Inter and AC Milan
In 1998, Ronaldo joined a small group of players who have played for both Inter Milan and AC Milan, even scoring for both teams in the Milan derby.
1998: 1998 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball
At the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo received the Golden Ball as the player of the tournament, helping Brazil reach the final. However, he suffered a convulsive fit hours before the final match.
1998: World Cup Disappointment
Ronaldo carried the hopes of Brazil in the 1998 World Cup, a tournament that ultimately ended in disappointment.
1998: World's Greatest Player
In 1998, Ronaldo entered the FIFA World Cup hailed as the world's greatest player by sports reporters, carrying the weight of a nation's hopes and dreams at just 21 years old.
1998: Joaquin Hidalgo Recognizes Ronaldo's Impact
In 1998, Joaquin Hidalgo, the director of Nike's Brazilian marketing unit, acknowledged Ronaldo's immense influence on the world of soccer. This recognition came at a time when Ronaldo's star was rapidly ascending on the global stage.
November 1999: Ronaldo's Knee Injury
On November 21, 1999, during a Serie A match against Lecce, Ronaldo suffered a serious knee injury that required surgery and kept him out for a long period.
December 1999: Ronaldo Marries Milene Domingues
In December 1999, Ronaldo married Milene Domingues. At the time, Milene was pregnant with the couple's first son.
1999: Ronaldo Suffers Knee Injuries
Beginning in late 1999, Ronaldo began to suffer from knee injuries that would have a significant impact on his career.
1999: Ronaldo's Impact at Inter and Recognition by Maldini
In 1999, A.C. Milan defender Paolo Maldini recognized Ronaldo as one of the two best players he ever faced, praising his phenomenal performance during his first two years at Inter Milan.
1999: The Emergence of Ronaldinho Gaúcho and Nickname Confusion
In 1999, the arrival of Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, widely known as Ronaldinho, to the Brazilian national team added a new layer of complexity to the Ronaldo nickname situation. To avoid confusion, Ronaldo de Assis Moreira was referred to as Ronaldinho Gaúcho.
1999: Ronaldo and Susana Werner Break Up
Ronaldo and Susana Werner broke up, ending their relationship that began in 1997.
1999: Back-to-Back Copa América Victory
Ronaldo continued his impressive form in the Copa América, helping Brazil win the tournament for the second consecutive time in 1999. He was the top scorer in the tournament and scored in the final against Uruguay, further solidifying his status as a key player for Brazil.
1999: 1999 Copa América Top Goalscorer
Ronaldo won the 1999 Copa América and was the tournament's top goalscorer.
1999: Previous Knee Injuries
Ronaldo's knee injury in February 2008 marked the third time he had ruptured a kneecap ligament. He had previously experienced this injury twice, both times to his right knee, in 1999 and 2000.
April 2000: Ronaldo's Son is Born
On April 6, 2000, Ronaldo's first son, Ronald, was born in Milan.
April 2000: Career-Threatening Injury
Ronaldo suffered a serious setback in April 2000 when he ruptured a cruciate ligament in his right knee, jeopardizing his career.
April 2000: Ronaldo Suffers Career-Threatening Injury
In April 2000, during a Coppa Italia match against Lazio, Ronaldo suffered a complete rupture of the knee-cap tendons after playing only six minutes. This injury, described as "the worst football injury" his physiotherapist had ever seen, sidelined him for a significant portion of his career.
2000: Previous Knee Injuries
Ronaldo's knee injury in February 2008 marked the third time he had ruptured a kneecap ligament. He had previously experienced this injury twice, both times to his right knee, in 1999 and 2000.
2000: Release of "Ronaldo V-Football"
The video game "Ronaldo V-Football," exclusively endorsed by Ronaldo, was released in 2000 for PlayStation and Game Boy Color. The game further cemented his status as a global icon and brand.
2000: UNDP Goodwill Ambassador
Ronaldo's global appeal led to his appointment as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2000, allowing him to use his influence to contribute to various global causes.
2000: UNDP Goodwill Ambassador
Ronaldo was appointed as a United Nations Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador in 2000, continuing his work in this role over the years.
2000: Ronaldo's Abilities Diminished Following Knee Injury
By 2000, Ronaldo's knee injury had begun to heal, but his pace and strength never fully recovered.
2000: Ronaldo Immortalized with Bronze Statue at Nike Headquarters
A bronze statue of Ronaldo was erected next to Ronaldo Field at Nike's headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, in 2000. This honor underscored his status as a Nike icon and his enduring impact on the sport.
2000: Missed Season Due to Injury
Ronaldo was forced to miss the entire 2000-2001 season due to the knee injury he sustained in November 1999.
2001: Return to Inter and Captaincy
In late 2001, after two operations and extensive rehabilitation, Ronaldo returned to action for Inter Milan and eventually inherited the captain's armband.
2001: Ronaldo's Cameo in "Mike Bassett: England Manager"
Ronaldo made a cameo appearance in the 2001 film "Mike Bassett: England Manager." This marked one of his early forays into the world of film and entertainment.
October 2002: Ronaldo's Debut for Real Madrid
Ronaldo made his highly anticipated debut for Real Madrid in October 2002, scoring twice against Alavés, with the first goal coming just 61 seconds after he came on as a substitute.
December 2002: FIFA World Player of the Year
Ronaldo's exceptional performance in the 2002 World Cup earned him his third FIFA World Player of the Year award, which he dedicated to his medical team.
2002: Real Madrid and La Liga Title
Ronaldo joined Real Madrid in 2002 and won the 2002–03 La Liga title, overcoming a series of knee injuries that had kept him inactive for almost three years.
2002: Ronaldo Joins Real Madrid and Achieves Century of Goals
Upon signing for Real Madrid in 2002, Ronaldo went on to score over a hundred goals for the club, becoming the fifth foreigner to achieve this feat. He was later recognized by Marca as a member of the "Best foreign eleven in Real Madrid's history".
2002: 2002 FIFA World Cup Winner
Ronaldo starred in Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup victory, scoring twice in the final and winning the Golden Boot as the tournament's top goalscorer. This achievement earned him the 2002 FIFA World Player of the Year and the Ballon d'Or.
2002: Nike Commercial: "Secret Tournament"
Ronaldo joined football icons like Thierry Henry and Ronaldinho in Nike's "Secret Tournament" commercial directed by Terry Gilliam for the 2002 World Cup.
2002: World Cup Redemption
In 2002, after a nearly career-ending injury, Ronaldo made a remarkable comeback, leading Brazil to their fifth World Cup title and earning the Golden Boot as the top scorer with eight goals.
2002: Meeting Michele Umezu
Ronaldo first encountered Michele Umezu, a Brazilian waitress, in Tokyo in 2002. Their meeting eventually led to the birth of Ronaldo's son, Alexander.
2002: Consistent Scoring in Three World Cups
Ronaldo became the second player in history, after Jürgen Klinsmann, to score at least three goals in three separate World Cup tournaments, solidifying his reputation as a consistent and high-performing player on the world stage.
2002: Scoring in Three World Cups
Ronaldo became the 20th player to score in three different World Cup tournaments, achieving this feat across the 2002, 2006, and 1998 tournaments.
2002: Ronaldo Returns From Injury
In 2002, Ronaldo returned to professional football after suffering a long-term injury. While still a great goalscorer, he was considered to be less skilled than he had been in the 1990s.
2002: World Cup Triumph, FIFA World Player of the Year, and Transfer to Real Madrid
In 2002, Ronaldo played a key role in Brazil's victory at the FIFA World Cup. He also won his third FIFA World Player of the Year award and transferred from Inter Milan to Real Madrid.
2002: Ronaldo Ranked Best Player at 2002 World Cup Despite Limitations
Despite not playing at his full potential, Ronaldo was ranked as the best player at the 2002 World Cup by FourFourTwo magazine.
2002: Triumphant World Cup Performance
Despite facing setbacks due to knee injuries, Ronaldo proved his resilience and exceptional talent by scoring eight goals in the 2002 World Cup.
December 2003: Ronaldo's Memorable Performances and Pichichi Trophy
In December 2003, Ronaldo scored one of the fastest goals in Real Madrid's history, finding the back of the net after just 15 seconds against Atlético Madrid. He also contributed to Real Madrid's first league victory over Barcelona at the Nou Camp in 20 years, scoring the second goal in a 2-1 win. Despite Real Madrid losing the league title to Valencia, Ronaldo finished the season as La Liga's top scorer with 25 goals, earning him his second Pichichi Trophy.
2003: Establishment of Match Against Poverty
Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane initiated the "Match Against Poverty" series in 2003, demonstrating their commitment to using their platform for social good.
2003: Ronaldo's Closest Call in the Champions League
In 2003, Ronaldo came closest to winning the Champions League when he and Real Madrid reached the semi-finals. Unfortunately, they were knocked out by Juventus.
2003: Standing Ovation at Old Trafford
In 2003, Ronaldo received a standing ovation from the crowd at Old Trafford, a testament to his enduring legacy and the respect he garnered even from rival fans.
2003: Ronaldo Named World's Most Famous Sportsperson
In 2003, Nike conducted a poll that listed Ronaldo as the world's most famous sportsperson, and the third most famous person overall.
2003: La Liga Title and Other Honors
In 2003, Ronaldo helped Real Madrid win the La Liga title, scoring 23 goals in his first season. He also played a crucial role in securing the Intercontinental Cup in 2002 and the Supercopa de España in 2003.
June 2004: Hat-trick of Penalties
In June 2004, Ronaldo scored a rare hat-trick of penalties for Brazil against their rivals, Argentina, during a 2006 World Cup qualifying match, securing their position at the top of their group.
2004: Praise from Real Madrid Colleagues
In 2004, despite being past his prime, Ronaldo continued to earn praise from his Real Madrid colleagues. Zinedine Zidane called him the best player he ever played with or against, Michael Owen expressed admiration for his speed and skill, and Ruud van Nistelrooy labeled him the best natural talent he ever played with.
2004: FIFA 100 List
Ronaldo was named in the FIFA 100 list of the greatest living players compiled by Pelé in 2004, recognizing his immense contribution to football.
April 2005: Birth of Alexander
Ronaldo's son, Alexander, was born in April 2005 following a brief relationship between Ronaldo and Michele Umezu.
2005: Ronaldo's Second Marriage and Miscarriage
In 2005, Ronaldo married MTV TJ Daniella Cicarelli. After becoming pregnant, Daniella suffered a miscarriage. Their marriage lasted only three months.
2005: Ronaldo's Racial Identity Sparks Debate
In 2005, Ronaldo's self-identification as racially white, despite his father's affirmation of his Black heritage, ignited discussions about race and identity in Brazil. This sparked a broader conversation about racial perceptions, influenced by a study highlighting the mixed ancestry of many Brazilians, often unbeknownst to them.
2005: Ronaldo Appears in "Goal!"
Ronaldo made an appearance in the 2005 film "Goal!", further integrating himself into popular culture and expanding his presence beyond the soccer field.
2006: Breaking Gerd Müller's Record
During the 2006 World Cup, Ronaldo tied and then broke Gerd Müller's long-standing record of fourteen goals in World Cup finals, ultimately scoring fifteen goals across his World Cup appearances.
2006: Arrival of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ronaldo's Declining Form
The arrival of Ruud van Nistelrooy at Real Madrid in 2006 marked a turning point for Ronaldo as he faced increased competition and fell out of favor with manager Fabio Capello due to weight issues and a decline in form.
2006: Joga Bonito and Criticism
Ronaldo was part of Brazil's "magic quartet" at the 2006 World Cup, promoting "Joga Bonito" ("the beautiful game"). Despite winning their first two group games, Ronaldo faced criticism for his weight and performance.
2006: South American Top Scorer
Ronaldo emerged as the top scorer in the South American qualifying rounds for the 2006 World Cup, scoring 10 goals in 15 matches, including a crucial goal against Venezuela that secured Brazil's first-place finish.
2006: 2006 FIFA World Cup Goal Record
At the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo scored his 15th World Cup goal, setting a tournament record at the time.
2006: Sidelined for Milan's Victory
Despite AC Milan winning the Champions League title in the 2006-2007 season, Ronaldo was unable to participate due to being cup-tied with Real Madrid.
2006: Contract Extension and Admiration from Fans
Barcelona recognized Ronaldo's immense value and agreed to extend his contract until 2006, doubling his salary. The fans expressed their admiration for his performances, particularly after a hat-trick against Valencia, during which they waved white handkerchiefs in a display of respect and appreciation.
2006: Bronze Shoe Award
At the 2006 World Cup, despite Brazil's quarter-final exit, Ronaldo received the Bronze Shoe award, recognizing him as the third-highest goal scorer of the tournament.
2006: Joining the Ranks of Players at Rival Clubs
Adding to his unique career path, in 2006, Ronaldo became one of the few to have played for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, two teams known for their fierce rivalry.
January 2007: Transfer to A.C. Milan
In January 2007, Ronaldo agreed to a transfer to A.C. Milan for a fee of €8.05 million. He departed Real Madrid after a successful spell, expressing gratitude to everyone at the club except for manager Fabio Capello, with whom he had a strained relationship.
February 2007: Debut and Early Success at A.C. Milan
Ronaldo made his debut for A.C. Milan as a substitute on February 11, 2007. He scored his first goals for the club in his first start, netting twice and providing an assist in a 4-3 victory over Siena.
April 2007: Ronaldo's Memorable Simpsons Cameo
Ronaldo made a guest appearance in "Marge Gamer," an episode of The Simpsons' 18th season, which aired in April 2007. His performance was later lauded as one of the most humorous cameos in the show's history.
2007: Hypothyroidism Diagnosis
In 2007, during his time with AC Milan, Ronaldo was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, a condition that affects metabolism and can lead to weight gain. This diagnosis provided some context to the challenges he had been facing with his weight.
2007: Scoring for AC Milan and Facing Injury Challenges
During the 2006-2007 season, Ronaldo scored for AC Milan in the Milan derby. Unfortunately, his second season at Milan was significantly hampered by persistent injury problems and struggles with his weight, limiting his playing time to just over 300 minutes.
February 2008: Career-Threatening Knee Injury
In February 2008, during a match against Livorno, Ronaldo suffered a severe knee injury, rupturing the kneecap ligament in his left knee. This was the third time he had sustained this type of injury, raising concerns about the continuation of his career.
April 2008: Scandal and Reconciliation
Ronaldo's engagement to Maria Beatriz Antony was briefly paused due to a scandal involving Ronaldo and three transgender prostitutes. The engagement resumed, and the couple married later that year.
December 2008: Birth of Maria Sophia
Ronaldo's fianceé, Maria Beatriz Antony, gave birth to their daughter, Maria Sophia, in December 2008.
2008: Lasting Scoring Record in La Liga
Until the 2008-2009 La Liga season, Ronaldo held the record for the most goals scored in a single season, a testament to his prolific scoring ability.
March 2009: Ronaldo's Debut and First Goal for Corinthians
On March 4, 2009, Ronaldo made his first appearance for Corinthians, coming on as a substitute in a Copa do Brasil match. He then scored his first goal for the club on March 8, 2009, during a Campeonato Paulista match against Palmeiras.
April 2009: Relocation to São Paulo
In April 2009, Ronaldo and his family moved to a new penthouse in São Paulo.
2009: Ronaldo Features in "Goal! III: Taking on the World"
Ronaldo continued his involvement in the "Goal!" film series with an appearance in the third installment, "Goal! III: Taking on the World," released in 2009.
2009: Success with Corinthians and Copa do Brasil Victory
Ronaldo played a key role in Corinthians' victory in the 2009 Copa do Brasil, scoring in the final against Internacional. This win marked the club's third Copa do Brasil title and secured their place in the Copa Libertadores 2010. He also finished the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A with 12 goals in 20 matches.
February 2010: Contract Extension and Retirement Plans
In February 2010, Ronaldo committed to Corinthians for another year by signing a contract extension that would keep him at the club until the end of 2011. He also shared his intention to retire from professional football after the conclusion of this contract.
April 2010: Birth of Maria Alice
Maria Beatriz Antony gave birth to their second daughter, Maria Alice, in April 2010. Notably, Maria Alice's birth occurred exactly 10 years after the birth of her older brother, Ronald.
December 2010: Move to New Mansion and Paternity Confirmation
In December 2010, Ronaldo moved his family to a new mansion in São Paulo. That same month, he underwent a paternity test confirming him as the father of Alexander, born in April 2005 from a previous relationship.
2010: Record Broken by Miroslav Klose
Miroslav Klose surpassed Ronaldo and Klinsmann's record by scoring at least four goals in three separate World Cups (2002, 2006, and 2010), raising the bar for consistent performance in the tournament.
2010: Copa Libertadores Qualification
Ronaldo played a key role in Corinthians' victory in the 2009 Copa do Brasil, scoring in the final against Internacional. This win marked the club's third Copa do Brasil title and secured their place in the Copa Libertadores 2010. He also finished the 2009 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A with 12 goals in 20 matches.
February 2011: Announcement of Final Match for Brazil
In February 2011, the Brazilian Football Confederation announced that Ronaldo would have a final, farewell match for Brazil against Romania, taking place in São Paulo on June 7, 2011.
February 2011: Ronaldo Announces Retirement
In February 2011, following Corinthians' elimination from the Copa Libertadores, Ronaldo announced his decision to retire from football, bringing his 18-year career to an end.
June 2011: Farewell Match in Brazil
Five years after his last appearance with the national team, Ronaldo was granted a farewell match in June 2011, playing against Romania in São Paulo.
December 2011: Charity Match with Zidane
Ronaldo teamed up with Zinedine Zidane in December 2011 for a charity match in Hamburg, Germany, playing with friends against former and current players of the German team Hamburg as part of the "Match Against Poverty" series.
2011: Retirement
Ronaldo retired from professional football in 2011 after spells at AC Milan and Corinthians, having suffered further injuries.
2011: Contract Extension and Retirement Plans
In February 2010, Ronaldo committed to Corinthians for another year by signing a contract extension that would keep him at the club until the end of 2011. He also shared his intention to retire from professional football after the conclusion of this contract.
2011: Steve McManaman Describes Ronaldo's Magnetic Personality
In a 2011 interview, former Real Madrid teammate Steve McManaman highlighted Ronaldo's charismatic personality, describing his ability to captivate everyone around him and his inclusive nature in social settings.
December 2012: Match Against Poverty in Porto Alegre
Ronaldo and Zidane reunited again in December 2012 for another "Match Against Poverty" event, this time in Porto Alegre, Portugal.
2012: Divorce from Maria Beatriz Antony
Ronaldo and Maria Beatriz Antony divorced in 2012, concluding their marriage of a few years.
January 2013: 2014 FIFA World Cup Ambassador
Ronaldo's contributions to football were further recognized in January 2013 when he was named one of the six ambassadors for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, held in Brazil.
April 2013: Ronaldo Joins PokerStars
Ronaldo became a member of PokerStars SportStar in April 2013, showcasing his interest in poker beyond just a casual hobby.
March 2014: UNDP Match Against Poverty in Bern
Ronaldo participated in the UNDP's Match Against Poverty in Bern, Switzerland, in March 2014, with the proceeds directed toward the recovery efforts in the Philippines following the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan.
December 2014: Ronaldo Invests in Fort Lauderdale Strikers
Expanding his involvement in soccer, Ronaldo became a minority owner of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, a North American Soccer League team, in December 2014.
2014: Ronaldo's Gift to Pope Francis
Ronaldo gifted a signed football to Pope Francis in 2014, which found its home in the Vatican Museums, signifying a gesture of respect and recognition from a global sports icon to the head of the Catholic Church.
2014: Praised by José Mourinho
In 2014, renowned manager José Mourinho called Ronaldo "the greatest player I have ever seen in my life," solidifying Ronaldo's place as one of football's all-time greats.
2014: Nike Celebrates Mercurial R9 Anniversary
Nike commemorated the 15th anniversary of the Mercurial R9 boots in 2014 with the release of the Mercurial Vapor IX, inspired by the original 1998 design. This tribute highlighted the enduring legacy of both Ronaldo and his iconic footwear.
2014: Nike's "Risk Everything" Commercial
As a mentor to current players, Ronaldo starred in Nike's animated "Risk Everything" commercial for the 2014 World Cup.
2014: Ronaldo's Archive Footage in "We Are One (Ole Ola)"
Archive footage of Ronaldo was prominently featured in the music video for "We Are One (Ole Ola)", the official song of the 2014 World Cup performed by Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez. His inclusion paid homage to his legacy in the sport.
April 2015: Hat-trick for Ebola Relief
Continuing his commitment to charitable causes, Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in the April 2015 UNDP Match Against Poverty in St Etienne, France.
2015: Ronaldo Expands Ronaldo Academy
Ronaldo opened eight new branches of his youth football school, the Ronaldo Academy, in 2015. This expansion aimed to provide opportunities for aspiring footballers globally.
2016: Ronaldo Named One of the Best of the Past 30 Years
In 2016, Rob Smyth of The Guardian named Ronaldo as potentially the best player ever, stating that he was easily the best of the past 30 years.
2017: Ronald Represents Brazil at Maccabiah Games
Ronaldo's son, Ronald, was chosen to play for Brazil's junior football team in the 2017 Maccabiah Games, often referred to as the "Jewish Olympics." Ronald's participation was notable as he is not Jewish but was eligible through his membership in a Jewish football club, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event.
2017: Ronaldo Joins FIFA 18 Ultimate Team Icons
In EA Sports' FIFA 18, Ronaldo was included as an icon in the Ultimate Team mode. Receiving a 95 rating alongside soccer legends like Pelé and Maradona solidified his place among the sport's greats in the virtual world.
2017: Reflection on 2002 World Cup Team
In 2017, Ronaldo reflected on his career, stating that the 2002 Brazilian World Cup team was the best he played in, highlighting their collective spirit and lack of vanity.
2017: Capello's Reflections on Ronaldo
In 2017, Fabio Capello, reflecting on his time managing Ronaldo at Real Madrid, described the Brazilian as both the best player he ever coached and the most difficult to handle, acknowledging his immense talent while also highlighting the challenges posed by his weight issues and fitness concerns.
June 2018: Appearance at the 2018 World Cup Opening Ceremony
Ronaldo participated in the opening ceremony of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Moscow, Russia, further cementing his legacy within the world of football.
September 2018: Majority Ownership of Real Valladolid
In September 2018, Ronaldo became the majority owner of Real Valladolid by buying 51% of the club's shares.
September 2018: Ronaldo Becomes Majority Owner of Real Valladolid
In September 2018, Ronaldo purchased a 51% stake in the La Liga Club Real Valladolid, making him the majority owner.
2018: Induction into Inter Milan Hall of Fame
In 2018, Ronaldo's impressive performances for Inter Milan, particularly during his first two seasons, earned him a place among the four inaugural inductees into the Inter Milan Hall of Fame.
2018: Ronaldo's R9 Boots Inspire New Generation
The Nike Mercurial Superfly VI boots, created for Kylian Mbappé and unveiled in 2018, drew inspiration from Ronaldo's R9 Mercurial boots. This design choice symbolized the passing of the torch to a new generation of soccer stars.
2019: Recognized as a Top Player Without a Champions League Title
In 2019, FourFourTwo magazine named Ronaldo the best player to have never won the UEFA Champions League, highlighting his exceptional talent despite this absence on his resume.
2020: Ronaldo Academy Global Expansion Goal
Ronaldo aimed to have 100 Ronaldo Academy branches open worldwide by 2020, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing young talent and growing the sport.
2020: Ballon d'Or Dream Team
In 2020, Ronaldo was named in the Ballon d'Or Dream Team, a greatest all-time XI published by France Football magazine.
2020: Ronaldo Named to Ballon d'Or Dream Team
In 2020, Ronaldo was named to the Ballon d'Or Dream Team.
2020: Ranked Among the Best Never to Win the Champions League
Further solidifying his place among football greats, Sky Sports ranked Ronaldo the second-best player, after Diego Maradona, never to win the Champions League or European Cup in 2020.
May 2021: "Ronaldo: El Presidente" Docuseries Premieres
May 2021 saw the debut of "Ronaldo: El Presidente," a six-part docuseries on DAZN. The series offered viewers a glimpse into Ronaldo's experience as president of Real Valladolid, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of his leadership role.
December 2021: Controlling Stake in Cruzeiro
In December 2021, Ronaldo acquired a controlling stake in his boyhood club Cruzeiro, investing $70 million in the club.
December 2021: Ronaldo Purchases Controlling Stake in Cruzeiro
In December 2021, Ronaldo bought a controlling stake in his boyhood club, Cruzeiro, for $70 million, hoping to improve the club.
January 2023: Ronaldo Announces Engagement to Celina Locks
In January 2023, Ronaldo publicly declared his engagement to Celina Locks, a model and businesswoman, marking his fifth engagement.
September 2023: Retirement from International Football
As of September 2023, with Neymar surpassing both players, Ronaldo holds the position of the third-highest goal scorer for Brazil, with 62 goals, following Pelé in first and Neymar in second.
2023: Ronaldo Embraces Catholic Faith
Ronaldo underwent baptism into the Catholic faith in 2023, formalizing his embrace of the religion.