“I’ve never hidden that it’s my intention to become the best.” It is one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s most famous quotes and neatly encapsulates the curious dichotomy of so much of what is written and said about the Portuguese superstar.
For his detractors, it demonstrates arrogance and an obsession with self-promotion, two character traits culminating in the inauguration of the museum he opened in his own honour earlier this year. His millions of admirers – and tellingly his team-mates and coaches – say it is simply a statement of fact, exemplifying the unfettered ambition that has made him an absolute champion of the world’s most popular sport.
The latter view is finally gaining ground as the prevailing conclusion. And just as well. Ronaldo is not one for turning to appease his critics. “I want to continue to be the best. This hasn’t changed as the years have gone by,” he said in an interview in the most recent edition of World Soccer Magazine.
