We all know who Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima is as he is possibly one of the most famous footballers of all time. Hailed for his breathtaking speed, dazzling dribbling, and deadly finishing, he made a prominent name in the world of football in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known as “O Fenômeno” (“The Phenomenon”), he became an international sensation, winning the FIFA World Cup several times, while playing for some of Europe’s top clubs.
Apart from his accomplishments on the football field, Ronaldo has established an opulent lifestyle, with lucrative endorsements, owning football associations, and the perks that come with being a celebrity. He remains a true inspiration to generations and one of the greatest goal scorers of all time.
Career Statistics of Ronaldo Nazário
Club Career Stats
In some of the biggest clubs in the world, Ron broke records and won trophies wherever he went. Here are some important numbers from his club career:
- Cruzeiro (1993-1994): 47 games, 44 goals
- PSV Eindhoven (1994-1996): 57 apps, 54 goals
- Barcelona (1996-1997): 49 apps, 47 Goals
- Inter Milan (1997–2002): 99 appearances, 59 goals
- Real Madrid (2002-2007): 177 games, 103 goals
- AC Milan (2007-2008): 20 games, 9 goals
- Corinthians (2009–2011): 69 appearances, 35 goals
- Club Career Totals: 518 apps, 351 goals
International Career Stats
- Caps: 98
- Goals: 62
- FIFA World Cup Goals: 15 (second-most ever)
- Copa América Goals: 10
- Confederations Cup Goals: 5
FIFA World Cup Victories and Achievements
Ronaldo was integral to three FIFA World Cups with Brazil, as they won two championships and a legacy:
Ronaldo featured as part of Brazil’s squad at just 17 but saw no game time. He did not walk away empty-handed: Brazil beat Italy in the final, earning him a World Cup medal.
Runner-up 1998 FIFA World Cup (France)
Ronaldo was the tournament’s best player, recording 4 goals with several assists. In that final against France, he had a mysterious seizure shortly before the match and underperformed in a 3-0 defeat.
FIFA World Cup Winner – 2002 (Japan & South Korea)
- Ronaldo had a magical tournament by scoring 8 goals.
- He scored both goals in the final victory over Germany, 2-0.
- Scored the Golden Shoe as the tournament’s top scorer
2006 FIFA World Cup (Germany) — Quarter finals
3 Goals: Became the all-time top-scorer in World Cup history at the time, surpassing Gerd Müller.
Lifestyle and Off-Field Influence
Off the pitch, Ronaldo enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, raking in huge sponsorship deals and living like a globe-trotting superstar.
Lavish Homes and Cars
Ronaldo has owned multi-million dollar properties in Madrid, Milan, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. His properties boast huge swimming pools, private gyms, and high-end furnishings. He is also a car lover with a collection of exotic cars, including:
- Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano
- Lamborghini Aventador
- Audi R8
- Maserati Quattroporte
- Bugatti Veyron
Business Ventures
Ronaldo retired in 2011 and became a successful businessman. He has a controlling stake in Real Valladolid, a Spanish soccer team, and Cruzeiro, his boyhood club in Brazil. His business empire, including sports marketing, investments and endorsements,
Personal Life
Ronaldo is married several times and has four children. He lives an extravagant life, flying to far-off exotic locations and attending glittering parties.