Ronaldinho's football farewell: "I did what I loved most..."
The former Barça player gave his thanks to everyone involved in his career and to those who sent well wishes after he announced his retirement.
On Tuesday, Ronaldinho's brother confirmed that the Brazilian star had officially retired from playing professionally. Since that moment, tributes have not stopped pouring in for a player who brought a smile to the Beautiful Game. Today, the former Barça player and Ballon d'Or winner took to social media to express his gratitude and say Thank You in an open letter to fans and fellow professionals.
Ronaldinho says Thank You
“First I would like to thank God, for the life he has given to me, my family, friends and for giving me my first profession. After almost three decades dedicated to football, I am leaving the game - my biggest dream - a dream which I have realized. I did what I love doing most, professionally for 20 years and 10 learning my trade. As a kid, I lived my dream intensely - every single moment, away trips, victories, defeats, the walk back to the changing rooms, going out onto the pitch, the boots I wore, playing with good football and poor quality ones, the accolades I received, the amazing footballers I played with, the players I admired and ones I only played with and against on the PlayStation, but who I still admire today. To sum it all up, it was incredible. My father and my family supported me a lot to help me to get to where I am, it was a team effort. We reached the first part of my journey with a wonderful story to tell...", Ronaldinho wrote.
"You all know what I am like, and know that I am quite shy and am not used to talking very much, but I would like to say Thank you very much, from my heart because I was able to do what I love doing with the help of everyone - coaches, fitness trainers, boards of directors, executives, fans of the teams I played for and fans from rival teams, the man who drove the team bus, the lads in the dressing room, referees and the press. Thank You, we built this story together, without you none of this would have been possible... In March, we will announce the next stage of my farewell but for now, I just want to express my gratitude. I remember that famous saying "Gracias Vieja!" for being my source of inspiration for so long and accompanying me in so many victories!!! Thank you for all the message and affection! A big hug, playing this sport made my life and profession so happy".