Ronaldo: Playing for Joy, Not Just Glory
“It is not so important for me anymore to be the best player in the world or winning more individual awards.
What is important now is to enjoy playing and helping my teammates,”he said.
Al Nassr Forward Cristiano Ronaldo.Photo by Goal.com
By Robert Mutasi
Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo recently addressed his view on his career, as he continues at an elite level well into his years.
Now 39, Ronaldo mentions that, more than the accolades, it is actually enjoying the game that matters.
The outspoken forward said in one candid interview, “I’m just enjoying playing football now as I know I don’t have much time left on the pitch.”
This statement has been what resonated with a lot of fans as they have watched him for almost two decades dominate his sport.
Despite the glittering career, the appetite for the game is still quite apparent in Ronaldo.
“Awards and titles, they mean nothing anymore for me,” Ronaldo added.
“It is not so important for me anymore to be the best player in the world or winning more individual awards.
What is important now is to enjoy playing and helping my teammates,”he said.
A change in perspective would reveal a mature, contemplative side to a player who has won five Ballon d’Ors and numerous UEFA Champions League titles.
Nowadays, he represents Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
For the team and off the pitch, Cristiano Ronaldo is an important figure.
Of course, he contributed to his team’s success and the growth of football in the region.
Such a strong star attracts much attention to the Saudi Pro League: international players come to this league, and more and more people watch the matches.
Attention to enjoying his football has come at a time when most of the players are under pressure to perform optimally.
He has shaped his game to contribute in a more wholesome manner, emphasizing teamwork and leadership.
Fans appreciate this evolution that has shown his commitment to the sport rather than individual achievement.
His comments are a reflection of those of all the experienced players that take part in the game, saying that one should not take himself too seriously but rather enjoy the game, especially those moments when one knows his career is at its tail end.
Such a transition-from glory to the success of one’s team-is what everyone who values his history in the sport has faced, just like Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimović, who have spoken along the same lines.
As Ronaldo said in one interview, while he is still playing, his big dream is to be an inspiration for young players. He meant that the love of the game should come first.
With each match, he wants to share his experience and infect others with his joy.
Nowadays, living in the era of statistics that overshadow the joy of the game, Ronaldo’s words bring people back to what football is all about.
While now in the final chapters of his career, assuredly the aftershocks of his presence within the sport will continue to reverberate for many years to come.
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