The debate over who stands as the greatest soccer player of all time has divided fans, players, and pundits for decades. Names like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Maradona, and Pele often dominate the discussion, but there are other stars who also draw consideration.
Brazilian forward Marta, one of the most decorated players in the history of the women’s game, shared her opinion on the matter. Speaking to FIFA’s official website in 2017, the six-time FIFA World Player of the Year revealed that her pick is Ronaldo Nazario — also known as “O Fenômeno.”
At first, she simply said “Ronaldo,” but clarified her answer given the existence of the Portuguese star with the same name: “Since the question is about ‘all time,’ the answer is Ronaldo O Fenômeno”. Despite choosing the Brazilian legend, Marta also praised the Al Nassr forward.
“My favorite player is Cristiano Ronaldo because he’s a goalscorer. I have to learn from him. I like to watch great players like Cristiano and then try to replicate them on the field,” she explained.
FIFA President Sepp Blatter (C) poses with Marta of Brazil and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal after they won The FIFA World Players of the Year 2008. (John Gichigi/Getty Images)
Messi also praised Ronaldo Nazario
Lionel Messi has also praised Ronaldo Nazario in the past. In a 2020 interview with TyC Sports, the Inter Miami star didn’t hesitate when naming the best striker he has ever seen. “Ronaldo Nazario was a phenomenon,” Messi said. “Of all the strikers I have seen, for me, he was the best. An impressive player from every aspect”.
see also
Vinicius Jr settles GOAT debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi with final verdict
Even after sharing the field with or against top forwards like Luis Suarez, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Villa, and Didier Drogba, Messi has remained firm in his belief that the Brazilian legend stands above the rest.
All of Ronaldo Nazario’s trophies
Cruzeiro
- Copa do Brasil: 1993
- Campeonato Mineiro: 1994
Corinthians
- Campeonato Paulista: 2009
- Copa do Brasil: 2009
PSV Eindhoven
- KNVB Cup: 1995–96
- Johan Cruyff Shield: 1996
Barcelona
- Copa del Rey: 1996–97
- Supercopa de España: 1996
- UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup: 1996–97
Inter Milan
- UEFA Cup: 1997–98
Real Madrid
- La Liga: 2002–03, 2006–07
- Supercopa de España: 2003
- Intercontinental Cup: 2002
Brazil National Team
- FIFA World Cup: 1994, 2002
- Olympic Bronze Medal: 1996
- Copa América: 1997, 1999
- FIFA Confederations Cup: 1997
