Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 873 goals in his career, won the Ballon d’Or five times, and is currently 38 years old, yet he shows no signs of slowing down.
Earlier this week, at the beginning of the Saudi Pro League’s winter break, the Portuguese superstar was caught flaunting his amazing physique in the gym.
Even though Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr team won’t play again until February 14 when they meet Al-Fayha in the AFC Champions League play-offs, he is still working hard.
Ronaldo finished 2023 with 54 goals throughout club and international play, making him the world’s best goalscorer. This is just one more illustration of his unwavering work ethic.
Ronaldo had previously won the award five times, having also placed first in scoring in Real Madrid in 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
The forward hasn’t always been a world-class football player with a toned body, despite the fact that he has dominated our screens over the past ten years.
At the age of 17, Ronaldo made his Sporting Lisbon debut in 2002. He was a tall, slender youngster who didn’t look anything like he does now.
Despite this setback, he continued to thrive and was recruited by Manchester United due to his outstanding abilities and performances.
But in the early 2000s, Ronaldo appeared to be a completely different player. Following a solid but unspectacular debut campaign, he realized he would need to gain weight in order to meet the physical demands of English football.
The 38-year-old started to build muscle in his upper body while making sure he was still slender enough to handle the obstacles posed by opposing defenders.
It proved to be a brilliant move as Ronaldo flourished under Sir Alex Ferguson’s tutelage over a six-year period from 2003 to 2009, becoming the first United player to win the Ballon d’Or since George Best in 1968.
Ronaldo took use of these developments in nutrition and technology to stay in the finest possible shape.
Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid for a record-breaking £80 million, where he continued to hone his physique, thanks to his incredible form.
Ronaldo’s remarkable physical attributes and physical conditioning caused a shift in the perception of football players and the ideal footballing physique.
This followed a great deal of dedication on the part of Ronaldo, 38, who was known to hire a personal chef, physiotherapist, dietitian, and doctor in an effort to perform better.
Ronaldo disclosed the significance of his nutrition and lifestyle choices in his gradual physique change, along with his intense exercise regimen.
In a 2015 interview with FourFourTwo, he stated: “I eat healthily, watch my diet, and stay away from bad things like alcohol, sugary sodas, and processed foods.”
“I eat mostly whole foods that are simple, like lean protein, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.” I attempt to get a lot of my protein from fresh fish because I really appreciate it.
“Getting enough sleep is essential to making the most of your training.” I usually go to bed and wake up early, especially on the days before matches. Sleep is incredibly important because it helps my muscles recuperate.
While working out at the gym and training are important, leading a laid-back lifestyle also contributes to being at your best both emotionally and physically. My free time is spent with family and friends, which helps me to de-stress and maintain an optimistic outlook.
Additionally, it has been reported in the past that Ronaldo eats six meals a day, which helps him maintain his lean body mass and gain muscle.
Considering his strict lifestyle and consistent on-field performance, it is therefore not surprising that many, like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the former United manager, believe Ronaldo will play well into his 40s.His goal in Real Madrid’s 4-1 triumph over Atletico Madrid to win the 2014 Champions League title and ensure La Decima for the Spanish powerhouses is among the most memorable moments of his career.
Ronaldo pulled off his shirt and stiffened up after he scored Real Madrid’s fourth goal, showcasing his amazing physique to fans everywhere.