In this special interview by Sacoor Brothers, football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo shares his thoughts on winning the Ballon d’Or, how he aspires to be the best, his personal style as well as being the new face of the luxury Portuguese label.
You won the Golden Shoe and the Ballon d’Or in the same year. Would you say that 2014 was the best year for your individual career?
Cristiano: Possibly, yes. Both individually and as a team player, it was probably my best year. But I think I’ve had similar years in Manchester and even in Real Madrid. That’s why I always make a positive assessment, both as a team player and individually. Maybe a bit more positive this year because we won the Champions League, the Super Copa… This might well be the best year in my career.
What does the Ballon d’Or mean to you?
It’s an individual trophy that every player dreams of winning one day. As you know, I won two awards and that makes it the culmination of a strong year, with a lot of hard work. In fact, it’s the seventh year that I’ve been in the top three in the world. And that makes me feel very proud. It’s a sign that I’ve had an extraordinary career and that makes me very happy.
You’ve experienced many important moments in the history of football. Can you say which goal you scored was the most special?
That’s a tough question. I’ve had a lot of happy years with my performance, both individually and as a team player. I’ve had lots of brilliant moments with regard to goals, and titles too, so it’s not easy to choose just one. So, what I usually say is that the most important goal is always the last one.
You are undoubtedly a committed player and you always try to set an example for others. Do you feel the burden of being a role model?
I think you learn as you go. I’ve been very serious about my work since I was very young. And obviously, the events of recent years haven’t given me any greater responsibility because I always behave naturally. The fact that I’m always trying to be the best, on and off the pitch, is also very important. I’ve always taken things very seriously, since I was very young, and that’s reflected in my career. Always being nominated, winning trophies for the club or individual awards, that’s the culmination of many years of dedication, hard work and professionalism and that makes me very happy.
You like taking parts in charitable events whenever you can. Is that what being a star means?
I think we can take advantage of the fact that we are public figures, loved by our fans. But, I hope they understand that you just can’t help everyone. In recent years, we’ve tried to help a lot of institutions. But, my opinion is that people who help don’t have to broadcast it. Showing solidarity makes me feel good and, as the saying goes: he who helps other is paid back twofold. And that has happened in my life.
How do you imagine the end of your career? Would you like to be a coach?
I was just saying to some friends yesterday that it’s a bit hard to hear people talking about the end of my career. It’s a situation which is still a good way off. I hope it will only come in 7 to 10 years, but I know it will depend a lot on my motivation. But, I really hope it is still a long way off…
In career terms, how would you like to be remembered in thirty years from now?
I want to be remembered as the best ever. I want to be up there with the best ever… That’s my aim and that’s what I’m building. Every year, I try to go further than before – and I’m not just talking about goals. In recent years, I’ve always improved. I’ve excelled myself and I want to keep doing that in the coming years. That’s why I’m convinced that I will be considered one of the best ever.
How do you reconcile your personal daily life with your professional demands?
Every day, I try to do whatever will benefit my performance. Obviously, it’s hard to reconcile some aspects, but I’ve learned to live with that constraint. I’m sure that in a few years’ time, I’ll be able to enjoy everything I’ve achieved over time.
What do you do in your free time?
It depends on the time, on the day, on the situation. It’s very relative. I have time to be with my family, my girlfriend, my friends, my son. Having time for myself, my recuperation, is important too. Especially for doing the things I like most, like swimming, doing stretching exercises… At night, I like being with friends, going out, going to restaurants…
Do you cook?
No. I have people at home who cook better than me so I let them have the “opportunity”.
What do you find really relaxing?
Being able to feel at peace, at home, with friends, with my family. I like it when I don’t have to get up early to go training or to play a match.
Your best holidays…
Sunbathing… and eating!
And going to Madeira, back to your roots, is that always a good holiday?
Madeira brings back a lot of memories. It’s where my family is.
Should men take care of their appearance?
Not as much as women, but I think a little is important.
Do you follow fashion trends or do you prefer your own style?
I prefer my own style, but I’m not so obtuse as not to listen to other opinions.
What’s your favourite place to shop?
On the Internet.
What item or accessory can you not do without?
Watch, trainers, blazer, belt.
Do you see yourself in the values of Sacoor Brothers?
Of course I do. I’m happy that we’re starting this grand adventure together.
Commitment, dedication, family, success, always wanting more, excelling yourself… Are these the values you see yourself in?
Yes, definitely. I think we have to be part of the good things in life, family, friends, etc.
