KUALA LUMPUR: Whether remembered as a relentless winner, a global icon or a symbol of perseverance, Cristiano Ronaldo’s greatest legacy may not be the records he leaves behind, but the example he sets.
Having announced his retirement from international football with Portugal on Thursday, Ronaldo leaves behind a remarkable legacy built on discipline, sacrifice and an unrelenting desire to improve.
From humble beginnings to the summit of world football, he has shown generations that talent can make you great, but hard work and professionalism are what keep you there.
Although his international career is coming to an end, his influence will endure long after his final appearance in Portugal’s colours.
Tan Cheng Hoe, Harimau Malaya interim coach
“The football world will be different without him. For more than 20 years, Ronaldo and Messi have dominated world football.
“But every footballer reaches a point when age catches up with them, no matter how well they look after their bodies.
“Ronaldo has set a great example and has been an idol to many young footballers. He always gave his best for every club and team he represented, and the football world will miss him.
“He’s a global superstar, but he remains humble on and off the pitch. There have hardly been any major controversies surrounding him.”
Datuk Ong Kim Swee, NFDP technical director
“Nothing is permanent in football. We have seen many great players retire from international football, and now it is Ronaldo’s turn. His impact on world football has been immense.
“Ronaldo has done so much for the game. For me, he was at his peak during his time at Manchester United and was virtually unstoppable. Players like Patrick Vieira tried to intimidate him, but he always got back to his feet and kept fighting.
“”I admire his character. He always gave more than 100 per cent in training and on the pitch. Some people say he’s arrogant, but I see it as his drive and determination to succeed.
“At 41, his performances may not be what they once were, but he has always shown the ability to bounce back whenever he is knocked down.”
Datuk Richard Scully, TV pundit and former footballer
“I see many dimensions to Ronaldo – as a person, an athlete and a football icon. All of that stems from the struggles he faced growing up in poverty.
“He never forgot his roots and has always been generous and charitable, especially towards children. As an athlete, he constantly pushed himself to be at his best, both on and off the pitch.
“Some people see him as a sore loser because of his attitude, but I see someone who gives everything for his team whenever he plays. International football will not be the same without him.
“I hope the United Nations will one day recognise him for his contributions to football and for being a positive role model for children around the world.”
Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan, former Harimau Malaya striker
“We need to thank Ronaldo for helping make football what it is today. Everyone wanted to be like him, and there is so much young footballers can learn from his example.
“He showed that footballers can perform at the highest level for many years through fitness and professionalism. Everyone will miss him, especially his country, Portugal. I hope we will see another player like him in the future.
“We should look at how he achieved greatness, not just his achievements. Don’t focus on fancy cars or private jets. Look at the hard work he puts in, both on and off the pitch.
“I hope he one day writes a book about his journey from poverty to the pinnacle of world football. It would be a real eye-opener for the younger generation.”