French football legend Emmanuel Petit has made a striking statement about Cristiano Ronaldo, commenting on the Portuguese star’s significant ego. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo is currently relishing his tenure in Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo is also aiming to maintain his peak fitness over the next two years to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo during a match. (AFP)
In an interview, Emmanuel Petit lauded Ronaldo, describing him as the ‘greatest role model’ in football history. Petit remarked, “Cristiano Ronaldo can be considered the greatest role model in football history when you look at where he came from and where he is today at 39. He came from Sporting and worked step by step to be their star player and he had that ambition to stay at the very highest level for so long. He had the ambition to break all the records and achieved that.”
Highlighting Ronaldo’s ego, Petit added, “He has a big ego, but that ego drove him on every single day to be the very best he could. He has set the example for 15 years and I have huge respect for him. I have respect for sportsmen like that who want to get to the very top but also stay there. In terms of the mental side and physical side, what an example Cristiano Ronaldo has set.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Ronaldo has secured five Ballon d’Or awards, a record three UEFA Men’s Player of the Year awards, and four European Golden Shoes, the most by any European player. His trophy collection includes 33 career trophies, encompassing seven league titles, five Champions Leagues, Euro 2016, and the Nations League.