One of the great stars of Brazilian football, Ronaldinho Gaúcho turned 44 this Thursday (March 21). Possessing a unique style, the author of dribbles that left opponents without a response, the forward was one of the main figures behind the victorious campaign of the Brazilian National Team in the 2002 World Cup, held in South Korea and Japan.
He scored the winning goal against England in the quarter-finals, with a long-distance free-kick that took an improbable curve and deceived goalkeeper Seaman.
Before that goal, Ronaldinho Gaúcho had already been decisive in the Brazilian National Team’s draw, when he dribbled from midfield with flair and provided a sweet pass to Rivaldo, who scored without being marked.
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That 2-1 comeback victory provided even more momentum for the team as they progressed in the competition.
Praised by Diego Maradona, who in April 2004 named him the best player in the world that season, Ronaldinho Gaúcho began his career at Grêmio’s youth academy, where he also played professionally and emerged as a national football talent.
He then found success at PSG, Barcelona during his peak years, and Milan. At Barcelona, he played 210 times, scored 108 goals, and was named the best player in the world in 2004 and 2005.
For the national team, he played 101 times and scored 35 goals. Ronaldinho Gaúcho became a collector of very beautiful goals, which are still showcased on various digital platforms and captivate football enthusiasts to this day.
Among his most important titles, in addition to the 2002 World Cup with Brazil, are the Champions League (2005/2006), two Spanish Super Cups (2005 and 2006), and two Spanish League titles (2004/05 and 2005/06) – all with Barcelona.
In brief periods, towards the end of his career, Ronaldinho Gaúcho also brought joy to Flamengo and Atlético-MG fans, where he played and won the Campeonato Carioca (2011) and later the Mineiro (2013) and the Libertadores, also in 2013, with Galo.
