Ronaldo Nazario opens up about difference between him & Cristiano Ronaldo

Rajarshi has been part of Khel Now since 2022, and he covers world football.

Published at :October 7, 2025 at 6:52 PM

Modified at :October 7, 2025 at 6:52 PM

(Courtesy : LaLiga Content Hub)

The Brazilian striker, who was renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, talks about the Portuguese phenom.

The phenomenon Ronaldo Nazario, a Brazilian icon, has talked candidly about his career and acknowledged that he trained significantly differently from Cristiano Ronaldo. He feels it may have hampered his potential.

Regarding their divergent perspectives, the two-time World Cup champion disclosed that although his own style of play was primarily dependent on innate skill, he frequently lacked the self-control that Cristiano is renowned for.

In a direct reflection, Brazilian Ronaldo stated:

Ronaldo Nazário Real Madrid LaLiga — Ronaldo Nazario in Real Madrid kit (Courtesy: LaLiga Content Hub)

“The difference between me and Cristiano is that I trained out of obligation and sometimes I did not even train. He trains because he loves it. I became a world champion and broke many records.

“Imagine what I could have achieved if I had trained like him. Talent alone was never enough. Passion for hard work made the difference.”

After a dazzling career that included stops at PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and AC Milan, Ronaldo Nazario retired in 2011. He is still regarded as one of the most admirable and naturally talented forwards in football history, despite never having won the Champions League.

Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo still plays for Al Nassr at the top level. The Portuguese attacker, who has scored 946 goals since making his professional debut with Sporting Lisbon, is attempting to reach the historic 1,000-goal career milestone.

Cristiano’s game has been moulded by discipline, consistency, and an unwavering work ethic, whereas Ronaldo Nazario’s was characterised by flair and instinct.

Although the two icons’ journeys to fame are different, their shared brilliance unites them. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s higher goal total, Ronaldo Nazario is still regarded by many as the best striker to have ever played the beautiful game.

What made Ronaldo Nazario different from Cristiano Ronaldo?

The former was known for his flair. However, the latter prioritises his fitness, as Ronaldo continues to deliver at the age of 40.

Which team did Brazilian Ronaldo last play for?

He last played for Brazilian side Corinthians.

Who is the better Ronaldo between them?

Cristiano leads in goals and trophies, but the Brazilian has won the World Cup, which the Portuguese has not won. Still, Cristiano is considered by many as the better Ronaldo.

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Rajarshi Shukla

After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.