The legendary Brazilian football player, 46-year-old Ronaldo Nazario, said that he struggles with depression. In an interview with Marca, the former great striker said that he has been undergoing therapy for two and a half years.
Depression, a topic ignored by Ronaldo’s generation
A two-time Ballon d’Or winner, three-time FIFA World Player of the Year and two-time World Cup winner with Brazil, Ronaldo announced his retirement in February 2011 after a career in which he scored 420 goals.
“Yes, I’m in therapy today. Two and a half years have passed, and I have a much better understanding of what I lived before. I look back and see that yes, we were subjected to very, very high mental stress and without any preparation for it.
In addition, since there was no concern for the mental health of the players, today they are much better prepared, they are provided with the necessary medical care. This was not the case in my time. It has been known throughout life that football can be a source of great stress and can take a heavy toll on a player for the rest of their life.
The reality is that I didn’t even know such a problem existed. This topic has been completely ignored by our generation. Many, of course, experienced terrible moments, even depression, due to the lack of privacy, lack of freedom… It is true that the problems were very obvious, but the solutions were not immediately available” – Ronaldo Nazarioreports Marca.
Over time, Ronaldo played for San Cristobal (junior), Cruzeiro, PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Corinthians.
Source: Hot News RO
James Springer is a renowned author and opinion writer, known for his bold and thought-provoking articles on a wide range of topics. He currently works as a writer at 247 news reel, where he uses his unique voice and sharp wit to offer fresh perspectives on current events. His articles are widely read and shared and has earned him a reputation as a talented and insightful writer.