Cristiano Ronaldo Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 15, 2025
Few names in sports history resonate as powerfully as Cristiano Ronaldo. From the narrow streets of a small Portuguese island to the grandest stadiums in the world, Ronaldo’s journey is a story of relentless ambition, unparalleled talent, and global icon status.
As one of the most decorated, followed, and influential athletes of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo has redefined excellence in football (soccer) and beyond.
Then: The Early Years – A Star Forged in Struggle (1985–2003)
1. Humble Beginnings in Madeira
Born on February 5, 1985, in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro grew up in a modest household. His father was a municipal gardener and part-time equipment manager at a local club, while his mother worked as a cook and cleaner.
The family struggled financially, and young Cristiano shared a room with his three siblings in a small, run-down home.
Despite the hardships, football was his escape. He began playing at age 8 for Andorinha, a local club founded by his father. His speed, flair, and fearlessness on the pitch quickly set him apart.
2. Overcoming Personal and Family Challenges
Ronaldo faced adversity early in life. His father battled alcoholism and passed away when Cristiano was just 20 years old—a moment that deeply affected him. He later said:
“He was a good man. I only wish he could see me now.”
He also struggled with a racing heart condition (tachycardia) as a teenager, which required laser surgery in 2000. Doctors feared his career might end before it began—but Ronaldo returned stronger than ever.
3. Rise Through Sporting CP’s Academy
At 12, Ronaldo joined Clube Desportivo Nacional, and by 14, he made the bold decision to leave home and move to Lisbon to join Sporting CP’s famed academy, Alcochete.
Known for producing world-class talent, the academy refined Ronaldo’s raw skills, turning his explosive pace, dribbling, and work ethic into elite tools.
By 16, he was promoted to Sporting’s first team and made his professional debut in 2002. His dazzling performance against Manchester United in a pre-season friendly in August 2003 would change his life forever.
Related: Kevin De Bruyne Then and Now
The Rise: Becoming a Global Superstar (2003–2018)
1. Manchester United – The Making of a Champion (2003–2009)
After his standout performance against them, Manchester United signed 18-year-old Ronaldo for €15 million—a record fee for a teenager at the time.
Under Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo transformed from a flashy winger into a complete footballer. He won:
- Three Premier League titles (2007, 2008, 2009)
- UEFA Champions League (2008)
- FIFA Club World Cup (2008)
- First Ballon d’Or (2008)
His 2007–2008 season was legendary: 42 goals in 49 appearances, earning him global acclaim. He became known for his aerial ability, free-kick mastery, and unmatched physical conditioning.
2. Real Madrid – The Golden Era (2009–2018)
In 2009, Real Madrid broke the world transfer record to sign Ronaldo for €94 million. What followed was the most prolific chapter of his career.
At the Santiago Bernabéu, Ronaldo evolved into a goal-scoring machine. Key achievements:
- 450 goals in 438 appearances
- Four Champions League titles (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018) — including three in a row
- Two La Liga titles
- Four more Ballon d’Or awards (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017)
He became Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer and the UEFA Champions League’s all-time leading goalscorer (140+ goals). His rivalry with Lionel Messi defined a generation of football.
3. International Glory with Portugal
While club success came early, international triumph took longer. Ronaldo captained Portugal in five European Championships and five World Cups—a record.
His crowning moment came in 2016, when Portugal won UEFA Euro 2016, their first major trophy. Despite injuring his knee in the final, Ronaldo led from the sidelines, motivating his team to victory.
He later won the UEFA Nations League in 2019, further cementing his legacy as Portugal’s greatest player.
Related: Vinícius Júnior Then and Now
Now: The Later Years – Legacy, Longevity, and Life Beyond Europe (2018–Present)
1. Juventus – A New Challenge in Italy (2018–2021)
In 2018, seeking a new challenge, Ronaldo joined Juventus for €100 million. In Italy, he adapted his game—becoming more of a poacher and leader. He won:
- Two Serie A titles
- Set multiple scoring records in a single season for a foreign player
Though he didn’t win the Champions League with Juve, his influence elevated the team and inspired a new generation of Italian footballers.
2. Return to Manchester United – A Bittersweet Homecoming (2021–2022)
Ronaldo’s emotional return to Old Trafford in 2021 was celebrated worldwide. He scored on his second debut and reached 800 career goals while at United.
However, the second stint was marred by team struggles, managerial changes, and a controversial interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticized the club. He left by mutual agreement in November 2022.
3. Al Nassr – The Saudi Arabian Chapter (2023–Present)
In January 2023, Ronaldo shocked the football world by joining Al Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia on a reported $200 million per year deal—making him the highest-paid athlete in history at the time.
Though no longer in Europe, Ronaldo continues to perform:
- Over 70 goals in 80+ appearances (as of 2024)
- Leading Al Nassr to domestic contention
- Bringing unprecedented global attention to the Saudi Pro League
His move sparked debate about legacy, longevity, and the globalization of football—but there’s no denying his enduring star power.
4. Continued International Dominance
Ronaldo remains a key figure for Portugal, surpassing 200 international caps in 2023—the most in men’s football history. He is also the all-time top scorer in men’s international football with over 130 goals.
He played in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and continues to represent Portugal in UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers, proving that age has not dulled his competitive fire.
Related: Mohamed Salah Then and Now
Beyond Football: The Brand of CR7
1. Business Empire and Billion-Dollar Influence
Ronaldo is more than an athlete—he’s a global brand. His CR7 empire includes:
- CR7 Hotels (luxury lifestyle hotels in Portugal, Morocco, and beyond)
- CR7 Underwear and Apparel Line (in partnership with Nike and later, his own brand)
- CR7 Fitness Centers
- CR7 Museum in Madeira
- Signature Nike Mercurial boots – one of the most iconic football cleat lines ever
Forbes estimates his net worth at over $1 billion, making him the first-ever active team-sport athlete to become a billionaire.
2. Social Media King
Ronaldo is the most-followed person on Instagram (over 630 million), TikTok (150+ million), and Facebook. His posts—whether family moments, workout clips, or promotional content—routinely generate hundreds of millions of views.
His 2018 World Cup Instagram post (a simple “Siuuu!”) became the most-liked post in Instagram history until surpassed by a boiled egg.
3. Philanthropy and Advocacy
Despite his wealth, Ronaldo remains connected to his roots. He has:
- Donated millions to children’s hospitals
- Supported disaster relief efforts
- Auctioned Ballon d’Or jerseys for charity
- Advocated for children’s rights and education
He also speaks openly about mental health, having battled depression in the past.
Related: Jude Bellingham Then and Now
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy is unparalleled:
- Over 850 senior career goals (highest in men’s football history)
- Five Ballon d’Or awards
- Five Champions League titles
- Most international caps and goals in men’s football
- Global ambassador for football’s growth in Asia, the Middle East, and North America
He redefined athleticism in football—popularizing extreme fitness, recovery techniques, and professionalism. His “Siuuu” celebration is recognized worldwide.
Ronaldo also paved the way for athletes to become entrepreneurs, influencers, and global icons—not just sportsmen.
Conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo – Then and Now
- Then: A skinny, impoverished boy from Madeira, playing barefoot on rocky streets, dreaming of greatness.
- Now: A billionaire athlete, global icon, father of four, and one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s story is not just about talent—it’s about work ethic, resilience, and an unrelenting will to be the best. He turned every obstacle—poverty, illness, criticism, failure—into fuel.
As he continues to play at the highest level in his late 30s, one truth remains:
Ronaldo didn’t just chase greatness.
He created it.
And whether he’s scoring in Saudi Arabia, inspiring kids in Madeira, or breaking records on Instagram,
Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy is eternal.
⚽ “I am not a quitter. I am someone who fights until the end.” – Cristiano Ronaldo
Related: Lionel Messi Then and Now