Ronaldo Nazário celebrates 50th birthday and career milestones

Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário has reached the age of 50, marking a career defined by numerous titles, records, and international success. A two-time World Cup winner with the Brazilian national team, Ronaldo was named FIFA World Player of the Year three times.

His professional journey began at Cruzeiro in 1993 at age 17, where he scored 22 goals in 18 games. Following his inclusion in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup winning squad, he moved to PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, scoring 30 goals in his debut season. His subsequent move to Barcelona saw him score 47 goals in a single season, winning the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.

During his time at Inter Milan, he earned the nickname ‘Fenômeno’ and was named the best player in the Italian league. His storied career also included successful stints at Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Corinthians. Early in his life, Ronaldo faced financial hurdles, such as being unable to afford transport to trials for Flamengo, before finding support at São Cristóvão.