Cristiano Ronaldo has spent over two decades making football history. From breaking records to lifting major trophies, his career has been nothing short of remarkable.
On 5 November 2026, he announced his retirement from international football after 23 years representing Portugal.
However, fans can still look forward to seeing him compete at club level.
While his football achievements are widely celebrated, there are plenty of interesting stories beyond the pitch. From an unexpected name inspiration to a special hometown tribute, here are six lesser-known facts about CR7.
1. He Underwent Heart Surgery at Just 15
Before becoming one of football’s greatest players, Ronaldo faced an unexpected health challenge. At 15, doctors discovered he had tachycardia, a condition involving an unusually fast heartbeat.
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The condition could have affected his ability to play football. Fortunately, he underwent a procedure that successfully treated the problem.
His mother, Dolores Aveiro, reportedly feared he might never play football again. Thankfully, Ronaldo recovered and returned to training shortly afterwards.
2. His Name Was Inspired by Ronald Reagan
Ronaldo’s full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. Interestingly, the name Ronaldo came from former US president Ronald Reagan.
His father admired Reagan, particularly his work as an actor. He reportedly chose the name because he liked him.
It is an unexpected connection, considering Ronaldo would eventually become a globally recognised name himself.
3. He Avoids Tattoos Because He Donates Blood
Unlike many footballers, Ronaldo has no tattoos. His decision is connected to his commitment to blood donation.
In some countries, getting a tattoo can require donors to wait before giving blood. The waiting period depends on local regulations.
Ronaldo reportedly avoids tattoos so he can continue donating blood more frequently. He has also supported bone marrow donation following his former teammate Carlos Martins’ son’s leukaemia diagnosis.
His efforts reflect a charitable side that many fans might not immediately associate with the football superstar.
4. He Left School at 14 to Pursue Football
Ronaldo left school at just 14 to focus entirely on his football ambitions. It was a major decision that meant putting his education aside for a chance at becoming a professional player.
He once shared that, without a football career, he might have ended up working as a local fisherman instead.
Thankfully, his gamble paid off. His decision to pursue football eventually took him from Madeira to the biggest stages in the sport.
5. He Became Football’s First Billionaire Player
Ronaldo’s success extends well beyond the football pitch. In October 2025, Bloomberg estimated his wealth at US$1.4 billion.
This made him the first footballer to reach billionaire status, according to Bloomberg’s calculations.
His earnings come from football contracts, endorsements and business investments. His global popularity has also helped him build a powerful personal brand.
Beyond his sporting achievements, Ronaldo has become one of the most commercially successful athletes worldwide.
6. An Airport in Madeira Is Named After Him
Ronaldo’s hometown has given him recognition that goes beyond football. In 2017, Madeira International Airport was renamed Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport.
Ronaldo is a local hero in Madeira, where his success has made him a source of pride. The island honours him with a statue, museum and hotel bearing his name. He once expressed his love for home, saying,
“You know how proud I am of my roots, my homeland.”
For someone who left Madeira as a young boy to pursue his football dreams, the tribute carries a special connection to home.
A Legacy Beyond Football
There’s clearly more to Ronaldo than what fans see on the pitch. From his early days in Madeira to becoming one of football’s biggest names, his journey has been full of interesting moments.
And even after stepping away from international football, his story is far from over.
