Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey is really far from over. As he adapts to new challenges in his career, his impact on football remains indelible. Through talent, hard work and an unyielding spirit, he has not only redefined greatness on the field but also inspired millions worldwide. Ronaldo is more than a footballer; he is a living testament to the power of ambition and resilience – a legend in his own right, shaping the future while honouring the past.

Named after US actor turned president Ronald Reagan, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born on 5 February 1985 in Funchal, on the Portuguese island of Madeira, into a close-knit, working-class family of modest means – his mother was as a cook and a cleaner, while his father was a municipal gardener and a part-time kit man for a local football club. There were financial challenges, but young Ronaldo found solace and joy in football. His mother once remarked, “Had it not been for football, and the dedication of my son, perhaps we would still be struggling.”

His journey into football began at the tender age of six when he joined Andorinha, the local club where his father worked. He quickly progressed through the ranks, showcasing remarkable talent. By the age of 12, after a compelling trial, Sporting Lisbon brought him 600 miles away from his family to the country capital, marking the start of his professional journey. He states: “I had to grow up quickly. It was a tough decision, but my heart belonged to the game.”

However, at 15, he faced a significant health scare – he was diagnosed with tachycardia, a condition that could have ended his footballing dream. After successful heart surgery, he returned to training, a testament to his determination.

Striking success

Ronaldo’s professional career kicked off at Sporting, where he made a lasting impression in the 2002-2003 season. His undeniable talent caught the eye of Manchester United’s manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, who signed the 18-year-old for £12.24 million in August 2003 (then about HK$156 million), an English record fee for a teenager. It was a move that would change his life forever. At United, Ronaldo evolved from a promising young striker into one of the world’s best footballers. He captured three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the UEFA Champions League and his first Ballon d’Or in 2008.

“I learned so much from Sir Alex. He really shaped my career,” says Ronaldo of Ferguson’s influence. During his six seasons in Manchester, he scored 118 goals, becoming the club’s top scorer in multiple seasons.

In 2009, he made history again with a then-world-record transfer to Real Madrid for £80 million. His tenure at Madrid was nothing short of legendary; he won four Champions League titles, two La Liga titles and added four more Ballon d’Or awards to his collection. Competitive yet respectful of his peers, he once stated in a reflective moment, “I aim to be the best, but I also respect others’ talents, especially [Lionel] Messi’s.”

Ronaldo became Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals, setting records that many believe will stand for years to come. He was not just known for his goals but also for his work ethic and professionalism. “There are no shortcuts in success,” he often reminded his younger teammates.

A pivotal moment came when he joined Juventus in 2018, transferring for EUR 100 million (then about HK$924 million), the highest ever fee paid by an Italian club. In Italy, he continued his remarkable trajectory, winning two Serie A titles and becoming the league’s top scorer.

Age of glory

He made a sensational return to Manchester United in 2021 at the age of 36, prompting a wave of excitement from fans. However, the 2021-2022 season proved challenging, and amid declining team performance and dissatisfaction, he parted ways with the club.

In 2023, Ronaldo signed with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. “I still have a lot to give,” he proclaimed upon his arrival.

Ronaldo’s career is a testament to unparalleled success, marked by numerous accolades including five Ballon d’Ors, four European Golden Boots, five UEFA Champions League titles, seven league titles across England, Spain and Italy, and European Championship (2016) and Nations League (2019) victories with Portugal.

He also holds the record for the most goals scored in UEFA Champions League history (140), and despite failing to win a World Cup with Portugal, he is the all-time top scorer in men’s international football (over 130 goals). “To break records is my motivation, but winning trophies with my teams is everything,” he reflects.

Transfer record

Off the pitch, Ronaldo’s influence is just as substantial. A dedicated philanthropist, he has donated millions to various causes, including significant contributions to cancer research and disaster relief. In 2016, he established the CR7 Foundation (named for his initials and the no. 7 shirt he always wears) to help children in need, using his platform to advocate for social issues.

His brand extends beyond football. With various endorsements and a burgeoning fashion line, Ronaldo has become a global icon. Forbes frequently cites him as one of the world’s highest-paid athletes, and he recently hit one billion social media followers, stating: “This journey is ours; we’ve shown that there are no limits to what we can achieve.”

Own goals

While Ronaldo continues to play for Al Nassr, he has expressed a desire to expand his career off the pitch. He recently launched his YouTube channel, which has seen explosive growth, making him the most prominent sports figure online. “From the streets of Madeira to the biggest stages in the world, I’ve always played for my family and for you,” he expressed poignantly to his fans.

Looking forward, he aims to remain influential in the game. “I want to inspire the next generation of athletes,” he says. He is also keen on pursuing business ventures, ranging from fitness to fashion, that align with his brand.

Truly, Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey from a humble upbringing in Madeira to becoming one of football’s greatest icons is a story of resilience, dedication and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His legacy is not only in the records he has broken, but also in the lives he has touched through his magic on the ball and his philanthropy off the pitch. As he often reminds us, “The best is yet to come.” And with each goal and each milestone, fans around the world eagerly await what unfolds next in this astonishing career.