Ronaldo Nazário, known as Ronaldo or Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, is a retired professional footballer who played as a striker, hailed as one of the greatest players of all time. Nicknamed O Fenômeno (‘The Phenomenon‘) and R9, he transcended the sport with his exceptional talent and achievements. Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond his playing days; he is now the owner of Brasileiro Série A club Cruzeiro and serves as owner and president of Segunda Division club Real Valladolid.
Ronaldo Nazário’s career saw him at clubs like Cruzeiro, PSV, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Corinthians. Ronaldo’s journey is marked by numerous winnings, including three FIFA World Player of the Year awards and two Ballon d’Or titles.
Despite Ronaldo Nazário’s knee injuries, the impact of “The Phenomenon” on the game is undeniable. If not for the relentless knee injuries, he might have been the true GOAT of football. Nevertheless, we declare here that Ronaldo Nazário was the greatest number 9 we’ve ever seen play.
Now, join us as we explore the extraordinary life and career of Ronaldo Nazário, uncovering 10 amazing facts that shed light on the remarkable journey of this football legend.
10 Amazing Facts About Ronaldo Nazário aka “The Phenomenon”
1. Ronaldo Nazário Earns a Standing Ovation at Old Trafford
Ronaldo Nazário received a standing ovation at Old Trafford, the iconic stadium of Manchester United, during a Champions League match. During this intense match, Ronaldo showcased his extraordinary talent by scoring a hat-trick, disrupting Manchester United’s aspirations with a final score of 4-3.
Following his exceptional performance, R9 was substituted, but not before receiving a remarkable standing ovation from the entire crowd. This unexpected display of appreciation momentarily surprised even the player himself.
2. “The Phenomenon” Suffered From Hypothyroidism
In the latter years of his career, Ronaldo Nazário began to experience weight gain, which ultimately led to his retirement in 2011 due to health reasons. In an interview with CNN, Ronaldo disclosed that he suffered from hypothyroidism: “Four years ago at Milan I discovered I was suffering from a complaint called hypothyroidism, which slows down your metabolism, and to control it I would have to take some hormones that are not permitted in football because of anti-doping (rules).“
3. Ronaldo Nazario’s Controversial Absence From the 1998 World Cup Final
Ronaldo Nazario’s absence from the 1998 World Cup final remains one of football’s most controversial moments. Just hours before the match, “The Phenomenon” was initially included in Brazil’s starting lineup, only to be mysteriously removed due to an alleged health issue.
Speculation surrounding his absence ranged from a seizure to pressure from sponsors. Despite later playing down the incident, Ronaldo’s performance in the final was subpar, leading to Brazil’s defeat against France.
4. Ronaldo Nazário Never Won the Champions League Title
Despite his tremendous success throughout his career, Ronaldo Nazário never won the UEFA Champions League. He scored an impressive 49 goals in European competitions but was unable to secure the prestigious title during his playing days.
This is particularly noteworthy considering R9 played at top european clubs such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
5. Played for Brazil Under the Name Ronaldinho Until 1999
Ronaldo Nazário, initially played under the name Ronaldinho during the 1996 Olympics, where Brazil secured the bronze medal. However, after another player named Ronaldo de Assis Moreira gained prominence and became known as Ronaldinho, Ronaldo Nazário reverted to his original name. From then on, he continued his illustrious career under his birth name, Ronaldo Nazário aka “The Phenomenon” or “R9”.
6. Ronaldo’s Incredible Goals-to-Games Ratio
Ronaldo Nazário’s illustrious career was distinguished by an exceptional goal-scoring record, a feat made all the more remarkable given the significant injuries he endured. Here’s a glimpse of his astounding numbers: At Cruzeiro, he scored 44 goals in 47 games, almost averaging a goal per match. Similarly, his time at PSV saw him bag 54 goals in 57 games, while at Barcelona, he scored 47 goals in 49 appearances. His stint at Inter yielded 59 goals in 99 matches, maintaining a solid 0.6 goals-per-game ratio, which he nearly replicated at Real Madrid with 104 goals in 177 games. AC Milan witnessed 9 goals from 20 appearances (0.45), and Corinthians saw 35 goals from 69 games.
In total, Ronaldo Nazário collected a staggering 352 goals in 518 appearances, boasting an impressive goals-to-games ratio of 0.68. Furthermore, for Brazil, he scored 62 goals in 98 appearances, averaging 0.63 goals per game, placing him just behind Pelé’s record of 77 goals, with Neymar at the top with 79 goals.
7. “Il Fenomeno” Claimed That He Had His First Ever Trial as a Goalkeeper
Ronaldo Nazário initially entered the world of football through futsal, where he showcased his talents. However, upon transitioning to traditional football, R9 found himself thrust into an unfamiliar position, requiring him to adapt. He said in his interview on YouTube’s program ‘Canal Zico 10.’
“I went to a trial in Valqueire, but as Futsal was very challenging, there were about 50 children to do the same trial,“
“I wanted to play on the right wing, where most of the people were as I still couln’t shoot well with my left.”
“There were people in every position, but there were only three goalkeepers.“
“I completed the trial as a keeper and I passed, but in training I changed my position and never looked back.“
8. Ronaldo Nazário Barely Played For Two Years
On November 21, 1999, during a match against Lecce, Ronaldo Nazário suffered a significant knee injury. Despite Inter’s 6–0 victory and Ronaldo scoring from a penalty, trouble arose when he twisted his knee chasing a through ball, resulting in a torn kneecap tendon.
Initially believed to be minor, the injury was later diagnosed as a partial tear of the patellar tendon, requiring surgical treatment. Remarkably, Ronaldo returned to play within just five months, authorized by his surgeon, Gerard Saillant.
However, his comeback was short-lived. In April 2000, during the Coppa Italia final against Lazio, Ronaldo ruptured the kneecap tendon of his right knee within seven minutes of his return, ending his season.
For nearly two years, Ronaldo endured rigorous rehabilitation, dedicating up to 10 hours a day to recovery. His intense efforts kept him sidelined until September 2001, missing the remainder of the 1999/2000 season and the entire 2000/2001 campaign.
9. Recipient of the Ballon d’Or at the youngest Age
“The Phenomenon” at just 20 years old, clinched the prestigious 1996 FIFA World Player of the Year, becoming the youngest player ever to receive this honor. The following year, Inter Milan secured Ronaldo Nazário’s services, breaking the world transfer record for the second time, a feat previously achieved only by Diego Maradona.
At 21, Ronaldo claimed the 1997 Ballon d’Or, retaining his status as the youngest recipient of the award. By age 23, he had already amassed over 200 goals for both club and country. Unfortunately, a series of knee injuries sidelined him for nearly three years.
10. Ronaldo Is an Avid Poker player
Ronaldo Nazário has shown a keen interest in the game and has even participated in various poker tournaments and events. In 2013, Ronaldo became a member of Team PokerStars SportsStar, further solidifying his connection to the poker world. Additionally, he has been spotted playing charity poker games alongside other sports stars and celebrities. While football remains his primary passion and profession, R9 enjoys indulging in poker as a recreational activity.
Ronaldo Nazário’s legacy transcends the pitch, immortalized as one of football’s greatest. From his meteoric rise to enduring setbacks, his journey captivates fans worldwide. With accolades like FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or winner, Ronaldo’s impact on the game is undeniable. His resilience through injuries, coupled with his exceptional skill, cements his status as a true legend. Ronaldo Nazário’s story inspires generations, showcasing the power of determination and talent in achieving greatness.
Ronaldo Nazário’s narrative illustrates the triumph of talent over adversity, leaving an indelible mark on football history and inspiring countless aspiring athletes around the globe.
