SAO PAULO (AP) - Ronaldo says he is retiring from soccer because he can’t stay fit anymore, ending a stellar 18-year career in which he thrived with Brazil and some of Europe’s top clubs.
The 34-year-old Ronaldo said Monday a string of injuries in the past two years had kept him from performing at a high level with Brazilian club Corinthians.
Ronaldo won two World Cups and holds the record for most goals scored in the tournament.
With his uncanny sprints toward the goal and an incredibly accurate finishing touch, he captivated fans everywhere he played, including Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan.
All despite having to come back from three serious knee injuries that threatened to end his career earlier than expected.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
SAO PAULO (AP) _ Three-time FIFA player of the year Ronaldo has scheduled a news conference where he is expected to announce his retirement from soccer.
The 34-year-old striker is set to speak Monday afternoon, ending an 18-year career in which he thrived with Brazil and some of Europe’s top clubs.
He told the Estado de S. Paulo newspaper Sunday that “it’s time” to stop because he can’t stay fit anymore.
The news comes just days after Ronaldo was heavily blamed by Corinthians fans for the team’s elimination from the Copa Libertadores.
Ronaldo won two World Cups _ breaking the record for most goals scored in the tournament _ and starred for Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.