Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, often hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has a career filled with remarkable achievements, records, and fascinating stories. While many know him for his incredible goal-scoring ability and athleticism, there are several lesser-known facts about the Portuguese superstar that highlight his journey, personality, and impact on the world of football. Here are 18 things you might not know about Cristiano Ronaldo:
1. Named After Ronald Reagan
Ronaldo was named after former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, whom his father admired. His full name, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, reflects his Portuguese heritage, but the “Ronaldo” part is a nod to the American actor-turned-politician.
2. His Mother Considered Aborting Him
Ronaldo’s mother, Maria Dolores, revealed that she considered aborting him due to poverty, her husband’s alcoholism, and already having three children. Thankfully, her doctor refused to perform the procedure, and Ronaldo was born on February 5, 1985, in Madeira, Portugal.
3. He Overcame a Heart Condition
At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with tachycardia, a racing heart condition that could have ended his football career. He underwent surgery to correct the issue and was back on the field just days later.
4. He Left School at 14
Ronaldo dropped out of school at 14 to focus entirely on football. He struggled academically and was even expelled after throwing a chair at a teacher who he felt had disrespected him.

5. His First Club Was Andorinha
Ronaldo began his football journey at Andorinha, a small club in Madeira where his father worked as a kit man. He later moved to Nacional before joining Sporting CP’s youth academy.
6. He Almost Joined Arsenal
Before signing for Manchester United, Ronaldo had a trial with Arsenal. Manager Arsène Wenger was impressed but ultimately decided not to sign him, a decision he later admitted regretting.
7. He Wears the Number 7 for a Reason
At Manchester United, Ronaldo was given the iconic number 7 shirt, previously worn by legends like George Best, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham. He has since made the number synonymous with his brand.

8. He’s the All-Time Top Scorer in the Champions League
With 140 goals in the UEFA Champions League, Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in the competition’s history. He’s also the only player to score in three Champions League finals.
9. He’s the Only Player to Score in Five World Cups
Ronaldo made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first player to score in five different World Cup tournaments.

10. He’s the First Player to Win League Titles in England, Spain, and Italy
Ronaldo has won league titles in the Premier League (Manchester United), La Liga (Real Madrid), and Serie A (Juventus), a feat no other player has achieved.
11. He’s the First Player to Score 50 Goals in Three Top European Leagues
Ronaldo is the only player to score 50 or more goals in the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A.
12. He’s the Most Followed Athlete on Social Media
With over 1 billion followers across Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, Ronaldo is the most followed athlete in the world and the first person to reach this milestone.
13. He’s a Billionaire
Ronaldo became the first footballer and third athlete (after Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods) to earn $1 billion during his career, thanks to his football contracts and lucrative endorsement deals.
14. He’s a Philanthropist
Ronaldo is known for his charitable work. He has donated millions to causes like childhood cancer research, disaster relief, and COVID-19 relief efforts. He also paid for a young fan’s brain surgery and donated his €600,000 Champions League bonus to charity in 2016.
15. He’s a Businessman
Beyond football, Ronaldo has invested in various businesses, including his CR7 brand, which includes clothing, fragrances, hotels, and gyms. He also owns a majority stake in the Portuguese club CD Nacional.
16. He’s a Fitness Fanatic
Ronaldo’s incredible physique is the result of rigorous training and discipline. He reportedly spends over $1 million annually on his body, including personal chefs, trainers, and cryotherapy treatments.

17. He’s the First Player to Finish as Top Scorer in Four Different Leagues
Ronaldo has won the Golden Boot in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and the Saudi Pro League, making him the first player to achieve this feat.
18. He’s Still Breaking Records at 39
Even in his late 30s, Ronaldo continues to break records. In 2024, he became the first player to score 35 goals in a single Saudi Pro League season and the oldest player to finish as the league’s top scorer.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey from a humble upbringing in Madeira to becoming a global icon is nothing short of inspirational. His relentless work ethic, passion for the game, and dedication to excellence have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Whether on or off the pitch, Ronaldo continues to inspire millions around the world.