Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has made a bold claim about his former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that if it weren’t for injuries, the Portuguese superstar would have won 15 Ballon d’Ors.
In an interview with Spanish media outlet AS, Carlos praised Ronaldo’s talent and work ethic, stating that he was the best player he had ever played with. He also mentioned that Ronaldo’s injuries have prevented him from achieving even more success in his career.
The Brazilian left-back, who played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid from 2009 to 2015, believes that the 36-year-old would have surpassed Lionel Messi’s record of six Ballon d’Ors if he had not been plagued by injuries.
Ronaldo has won five Ballon d’Ors in his career, with his last one coming in 2017. However, he has been hampered by injuries in recent years, which has affected his performances on the pitch.
Carlos also spoke about the impact of injuries on a player’s career, stating that they can be a major obstacle in achieving success. He cited his own experience, where he missed out on the 2002 World Cup due to an injury, as an example.
The former Real Madrid defender also praised Ronaldo’s dedication and determination to overcome his injuries and continue to perform at the highest level. He believes that the Portuguese forward’s mentality is what sets him apart from other players.
Despite his injuries, Ronaldo has continued to be one of the top players in the world, winning numerous trophies and breaking records at both club and international level. He recently became the all-time top scorer in men’s international football, surpassing Ali Daei’s record of 109 goals.
In conclusion, Roberto Carlos’ claim about Ronaldo’s potential to win 15 Ballon d’Ors if not for injuries may seem far-fetched to some, but it is a testament to the talent and determination of the Portuguese superstar. As he continues to defy age and overcome obstacles, there is no doubt that he will continue to leave his mark on the world of football.
