The iconic Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho is now sharing insights into his remarkable journey in the Netflix documentary series titled *Ronaldinho: The One and Only*. This series, which premiered on April 16, offers viewers a deeper understanding of the man behind the legendary moments in football, from his humble beginnings to his star-studded career.
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Ronaldinho, born Ronaldo de Assis Moreira in Porto Alegre, Brazil, showcased his football talents from an early age. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in the sport; his father was a shipyard worker and his mother was pursuing a nursing career while also selling products. Influenced by this lineage, the young Ronaldinho immersed himself in football, a passion he described as ingrained in his life. “My uncles, my father, and my brother were all players,” he recounted in an early interview. However, his childhood took a tragic turn when his father passed away unexpectedly when Ronaldinho was just eight years old, a loss he later described as that of his “superhero.”
Emerging from these early struggles, Ronaldinho began to make his mark on professional football. He debuted for Grêmio in 1998, where his flair and skill quickly drew the eyes of scouts from Europe. His career took a significant leap in 2001 when he joined Paris Saint-Germain. However, it was a 2003 transfer to FC Barcelona that solidified his status as a global icon. In his five years with the club, Ronaldinho not only helped Barcelona win two La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League but also secured the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2005.
Ronaldinho’s achievements extended beyond club football; he played a crucial role in Brazil’s triumph at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He was part of a formidable squad that included football greats like Ronaldo and Rivaldo. His memorable performances, including a stunning free-kick against England in the quarter-finals, helped Brazil clinch their fifth World Cup title, further establishing his legacy in the sport.
As his professional career waned, Ronaldinho retired in January 2018. His brother and agent, Roberto, confirmed the news, stating, “He has stopped, it is ended.” Although he had not played professionally since 2015, his retirement marked the end of an era for many fans who had grown up watching his dazzling skills. Following retirement, he expressed his desire for a grand farewell celebration that would encompass events in Brazil, Europe, and Asia.
Despite his illustrious career, Ronaldinho faced his share of challenges off the pitch. He struggled with legal and financial troubles that began surfacing after his retirement. Between 2012 and 2015, the Instituto Ronaldinho Gaúcho, a charity aiding underprivileged youth, was investigated for alleged contract irregularities. By 2018, Ronaldinho had his assets seized due to an unpaid environmental fine linked to the institute’s construction. These issues compounded when he faced significant debts related to illegal constructions on his property in Porto Alegre.
In 2020, Ronaldinho and his brother were arrested for attempting to enter Paraguay with fake passports, a move that landed them in hot water legally. Although they later reached a plea agreement, the incidents painted a troubling picture of the legendary player’s post-football life, contrasting sharply with his on-field successes.
Family remains at the heart of Ronaldinho’s life. He announced the birth of his son, João Mendes, in 2005. Following in his father’s footsteps, João has played for FC Barcelona’s youth academy and had a brief spell at Burnley F.C. Before joining Hull City’s academy, he epitomised the legacy of success his father built. Ronaldinho has been actively supportive of his son’s ambitions in football, expressing pride in seeing João wear Barcelona’s colours.
As he continues to navigate his life after football, Ronaldinho’s story remains an inspiring one, filled with both triumph and adversity. The Netflix series provides a revealing glimpse into the experiences that shaped one of the most colourful figures in the history of the sport. Through hard work and resilience, Ronaldinho has secured his place as a football legend, and his narrative serves as a reminder of the highs and lows that come with fame, both on and off the pitch.