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Ronaldo Nazário ("R9")

The Brazilian striker nicknamed "R9" — the original Ronaldo, a World Cup winner and one of the greatest strikers ever

Active — Ronaldo Nazário — known as "R9" — won two World Cups with Brazil and is regarded as one of the greatest strikers ever. Retired from playing in 2011, he is now a businessman and football club owner.

Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, known simply as Ronaldo (and "R9"), was born in 1976 in Brazil, the second of three great "Ronaldos" in football's modern story. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of all time, famed for his explosive pace, devastating finishing and incredible dribbling.

He won the FIFA World Cup twice — in 1994 (as a squad member) and 2002 (where he was the tournament's top scorer) — and was named FIFA World Player of the Year multiple times. He played for some of the world's biggest clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, scoring goals everywhere he went.

After retiring in 2011, Ronaldo became a businessman. He co-owned a Spanish club and has been active in football ownership, most recently part of a group involved in Brazilian football. He remains one of the most recognizable figures in the sport.

Quick facts

Born

1976, Brazil

World Cups

1994, 2002 (winner)

2002

Top scorer of the tournament

Ballon d'Or

Won twice (1997, 2002)

Clubs

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan

Retired

2011

Now

Businessman and club owner

Sources

1. Ronaldo (Brazilian footballer) - Wikipedia — Wikipedia (2026-09-05)
2. Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos buy a historic Brazilian club — El Economista (2026-09-05)

Related: cristiano ronaldo · lionel messi