I'm the role model for the best young players, says Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo speaks to Portuguese TV sports analyst Rui Pedro at the Dubai International Sports Conference on Saturday. (Photo by Neeraj Murali)

Cristiano Ronaldo's face lights up when he speaks about his 'work behind the scenes', the sacrifices he makes to be able to perform age-defying heroics even as he agrees that he won't last forever. And that 'acting in movies' could be his refuge once he decides to hang up his boots.
The 34-year-old Juventus striker arrived to a standing ovation at the Dubai International Sports Conference on Saturday before giving a glimpse into his world of excellence.
"There is no secret to my success. I love what I do, which is playing football. If you love what you do in life, you will be successful. Also, I have matured quite a lot over the years," the five-time Ballon d'Or winner told the audience in Dubai.
"Of course, you become happy when you win the individual awards. But that's not the most important thing. For me helping my team win titles is the most important thing. There has been absolutely no miracle. I work hard and I play football with passion. And that's what makes people happy. That's what makes my family happy."
Having won league titles in England, Spain and Italy, Ronaldo's ability to adapt to the demands of a new country has now become a part of the legend. And he hopes to continue this incredible journey for a few more years.
"It's been 15 years at the highest level for me in England, Spain and Italy. It's been possible because I have this great ambition to succeed everywhere I play. I am 34 now, but my motivation to play well for my team is still very high. The work that I put in behind the scenes is very important," he said.
"I have got nothing to prove to anyone because my numbers speak for themselves. But people often ask me how long I could continue. Well, my nine-year-old son (Cristiano Jr) already plays football and he wants me to continue long enough so we could both play for the same team one day. But it's going to be difficult. Having said that, it's possible for me to play at a high level for a few more years."
Time-management, says Ronaldo, is an important part of his life as an athlete.
"I give my family two hours of my life a day. But when I train, I want to be alone. When I am in the gym, I work as hard as I work on the field. See, you have to make sacrifices to remain at the highest level," he said.
"Also, I know my body very well. That's why I have been able to perform well even after turning 30. And that's why I am the role model for the best young players in football today. They try to learn from me. They know the value of hard work and sacrifice.
"In fact, it's not just me, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the role models for the best young tennis players now because they have been able to perform at such high level despite their age. Federer is 38 now and he is still amazing."
Finally, Ronaldo was asked about Pele, arguably the greatest footballer of all time. The iconic Brazil scored 757 goals in his glittering career. Now with 712 goals, Ronaldo is in prime position to eclipse the three-time World Cup winner.
"It's not an obsession for me because obsession is not good. I am just trying to play my best football. I am not trying to break Pele's record," he said.
"Pele will always be Pele even if someone breaks his record. Some young players might break my records as well in future. That's football. You know I never have had a bad year because I always prepare well for a new season. 2019 was really good. But next year could be even better," the former Real Madrid striker smiled.
rituraj@khaleejtimes.com