Ronaldinho leaves bitter taste with ‘disrespectful’ actions at charity match

Brazil icon and Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldinho has come under fire after his actions at a Polish charity match rubbed organisers and fans up the wrong way

Brazil legend Ronaldinho has ruffled feathers at a Polish exhibition match. The 45-year-old Ballon d’Or winner reportedly arrived at the event late and made a “disrespectful” swift getaway.

The skilful and naturally talented forward enjoyed a remarkable career in Europe from 2001 until 2011, winning a Champions League with Barcelona and a Scudetto with AC Milan, among other accolades.

He lifted the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and scored nearly 250 times domestically, providing 181 assists. Ronaldinho built up a reputation as a laid-back, carefree figure with no penchant for training during his playing days, but reports suggest that since his retirement in 2018, his distinction may precede him.

The legend was commissioned to appear at the Ronaldinho Show, a charity football match and freestyle event with a penalty shootout guaranteed, featuring live musical performances. It took place on Saturday in the Polish city of Chorzów at the Silesian Stadium and featured some of his friends as well as local footballing legends.

While the day was supposed to be a joyous affair, and Ronaldinho did show up, claims made by reporters on the Polish programme Moc Futbolu suggest the superstar made a negative impression.

It is alleged that Ronaldinho’s behaviour caused a stir amongst organisers, as he turned up to the pre-match meal held before the event two hours late. He is also accused of avoiding all interaction with the media to speak on the event and demanding separate transport to the stadium, casting team-mates aside.

Ronaldinho played 73 minutes of the clash, but, after being substituted, it is suggested that he made a swift exit. He didn’t wait around until the end of the match, not even knowing the result once the final whistle had sounded.

Despite being heavily criticised for his actions at the charity match, Ronaldinho took to social media after the game to post a thank-you message to those who came out to see him, as well as his son and brother who were brought along.

“Thank you Poland! What an incredible night with almost 60,000 people in the stadium! A beautiful party,” posted the 45-year-old to X.

“Thanks to all athletes who participated; it was a very special feeling to be on the field with my brother and son… A movie played in my head with [ex-Porto goalkeeper] Helton also giving way to his son.

“Our lives are dedicated to football and to receive this affection in a country so far from our own only makes me very thankful… I just want to thank God and all of you, my friends, family and professional colleagues, you’ve brought me this far! Thank you.”

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