Brazil’s greatest football legends

Júlia Moura September 7, 2024

Brazil is universally celebrated as the “country of football,” having produced some of the most extraordinary talents the sport has ever witnessed. Among these, four players rise above the rest, their names etched in the annals of football history: Pelé, Ronaldo, Romário, and Ronaldinho. These icons have left an indelible legacy, not only in Brazil but across the globe, capturing countless titles, awards, and the admiration of millions of fans.

Pelé, the king of football

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pelé, is almost unanimously considered the greatest football player of all time. Born in 1940 in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Pelé began his career at Santos FC, where he stood out with his skills and incredible ability to simply score goals.

Pelé is the only player to have won three World Cups (1958, 1962, and 1970).
Pelé scored over 1,000 goals in his career, being the top scorer in the history of Santos FC.
Named Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee and included in ‘s list of the 100 greatest football players.

Pelé was not just a football player; he was a strategist, with game vision, speed, and a unique ability to make unpredictable plays. His intelligence on the field made him a player who executed, created, led, and inspired millions of Brazilians. Pelé passed away on December 29, 2022, at the age of 82, due to cancer. His death marked the end of an era and caused worldwide mourning. Brazil declared official mourning for the football player, and millions of fans around the world paid tribute to the “King of Football.” Stadiums, monuments, and tourist attractions were illuminated in his honor.

Ronaldo, the phenomenon

Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, known simply as Ronaldo or by his nickname “O Fenômeno” (the Phenomenon) is another iconic name in Brazilian football history. Born in 1976 in Rio de Janeiro, Ronaldo began his career at Cruzeiro and soon attracted the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Ronaldo won two World Cups (1994 and 2002) and was the top scorer of the 2002 World Cup.
Three-time Ballon d’Or winner (1997, 2002).
He played for major clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.

Ronaldo was known for his speed, dribbling, and precise finishing. Despite suffering several injuries throughout his career, he always recovered and continued to shine, earning the nickname “Phenomenon.” Today, at 47, Ronaldo remains an influential figure in the football world and beyond. After retiring as a player in 2011, Ronaldo has been involved in various activities and ventures, now standing out as a businessman, investor, and sports commentator.

Romário, the little one

Romário de Souza Faria, famously known as Romário, is one of the greatest goal scorers in football history. Born in 1966 in Rio de Janeiro, Romário began his career at Vasco da Gama and became one of Brazil’s greatest footballers.

Romário was the standout player for Brazil in the 1994 World Cup, leading the team to its fourth championship.
With over 1,000 career goals, Romário is one of the greatest scorers in football history.
Named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1994.

Romário was known for his ability to position himself and finish with precision. His knack for scoring decisive goals made him a legend both in Brazil and abroad amongst football fans. Romário has been involved in Brazilian politics since 2010. He currently serves as a senator for the state of Rio de Janeiro, in addition to being remembered as one of the greatest strikers in football history.

Ronaldinho Gaúcho

Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, better known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho, made his mark in football with his talent, charisma, and skill. Born in 1980 in Porto Alegre, Ronaldinho began his career at Grêmio before moving to European teams. He especially shone at Barcelona.

World champion in 2002.
Two-time Ballon d’Or winner (2004, 2005).
Starred at Barcelona, where he played a key role in winning major titles like the 2006 UEFA Champions League.

Ronaldinho was renowned for his joyful and inventive style of play. His dribbles, passes, and goals showcased extraordinary talent, captivating fans with every move. He transformed football into an art form, always playing with a smile and embodying the pure joy of the game. Since retiring, Ronaldinho has stayed in the spotlight through various events, advertising campaigns, and entrepreneurial ventures, including music and NFTs. He is highly active on social media and continues to make his mark in the entertainment industry.

Brazilian football

In addition to the greats like Pelé, Ronaldo, Romário, and Ronaldinho, Brazil has also produced other outstanding football players. Neymar is a current star known for his skills and success at PSG and the Brazilian national team. Zico excelled at Flamengo and is considered one of the greatest midfielders in history. Rivaldo was crucial in winning the 2002 World Cup. Kaká, Ballon d’Or winner in 2007, shone for Milan and the national team. Sócrates, famous for his intelligence on and off the field, was a leader of the “Corinthian Democracy” and an icon of the 1980s Brazilian team. Brazilian football is rich in history and talent, recognised worldwide, with players who have defined eras and transformed the sport. Pelé, Ronaldo, Romário, Ronaldinho, and many others won titles and inspired millions of fans around the world. Their legacies still influences new generations of players.