When Diego Maradona Sang Ronaldo's Praises, Labelled Him ‘One of a Kind’

• Diego Maradona once gave Cristiano Ronaldo his flowers for his remarkable achievements on the pitch
• Despite falling short of football's pinnacle of winning the World Cup, Ronaldo is considered a true great
• The Portuguese veteran has five Ballon d'Or awards to his credit amid a plethora of outstanding records

Cristiano Ronaldo undeniably stands as one of the game's premier talents, supported by an abundance of accolades and records.

Many hold the belief that beyond his goal-scoring prowess, his unwavering work ethic and relentless pursuit of success make him an exemplary role model for aspiring footballers.

When assessing the greatest footballer of all time, Ronaldo effortlessly earns his place on the list, irrespective of the criteria employed, per Bleacher Report.

The only notable blemish on his illustrious career may be his inability to lead Portugal to FIFA World Cup glory.

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At 38 years old, achieving this feat in the 2026 Mundial, when he'll be 41, seems increasingly improbable.

However, despite not 'completing football' like his eternal rival, Lionel Messi, many regard Ronaldo as a 'once in a lifetime' player, the Guardian reports.

This sentiment was shared by Argentine legend, Diego Maradona, who led La Albiceleste to their second World Cup victory in 1986.

Maradona once likened Ronaldo's match-winning abilities and aura to those of the late Dutch football legend and manager, Johann Cruyff.

"Another thing I have to say about Cristiano [Ronaldo] is that when the team needs him, he shows up. He has that and watch out after young Cruyff. There weren't many players," he said, referring to Ronaldo's goal-scoring heroics for Real Madrid against Barcelona back in 2012.

With a recent hint that the 2022 edition may have been his last World Cup and Ronaldo's exclusion from the Ballon d'Or nominees this year, it is hard to believe even the veteran's glowing review from Maradona will be enough to elevate him in the eyes of Messi supporters.

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Giggs rates Ronaldo's GOAT status

In a related publication, Sports Brief reported on Manchester United legend, Ryan Giggs has offered his insight into why Ronaldo deserves the recognition as one of the 'greatest footballers of all time.'

Giggs, who shared six successful seasons with Ronaldo at Old Trafford, contends the Portuguese superstar's 'unwavering capacity to secure victories' does set him apart in the world of football.

While Giggs may have a personal connection to his former teammate at the Old Trafford outfit, Ronaldo's extensive record and numerous game-changing performances undoubtedly bolster his claim.