Ronaldinho, born Ronaldo de Assis Moreira on March 21, 1980, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, grew up in a family deeply passionate about football. His father, João Moreira, was a shipyard worker and local club footballer, and his mother, Miguelina de Assis, was a salesperson who later became a nurse. Football was an integral part of his family life, as his older brother, Roberto, also pursued a career in the sport, eventually signing with Grêmio, which influenced Ronaldinho’s own aspirations.
Discover the beginnings of a football legend with our gallery of 19 Rare Ronaldinho Childhood Photos
Ronaldinho Childhood Photos
Ronaldinho Childhood Facts
- Full Name: Born Ronaldo de Assis Moreira
- Birthdate: March 21, 1980
- Birthplace: Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Nickname: “Ronaldinho,” meaning “little Ronaldo” in Brazilian Portuguese
- Family Background: His mother, Miguelina, was a salesperson who later became a nurse, and his father, João, was a shipyard worker and local football player
- Early Tragedy: Ronaldinho’s father passed away from a heart attack when Ronaldinho was just eight years old
- Football in Blood: His older brother, Roberto, was a professional footballer with the Grêmio club
- Early Skill Recognition: Demonstrated a remarkable talent for football from a very young age
- Youth Achievements: Scored 23 goals in a single match as an eight-year-old, which brought him local media attention
- Inspired by Rivelino: Ronaldinho’s childhood idol was the Brazilian football star Rivelino
- Influence of Futsal: Played futsal and street football, which greatly influenced his playing style and technique
- Youth Career: Joined the local football youth ranks, which led him to Grêmio’s youth squad
- Signature Smile: Known for his smile on the pitch from a young age, which became one of his trademarks
- Education: Although his primary focus was football, he attended school but was always more passionate about the sport
- Early Representation: Ronaldinho was selected for the Under-17 Brazil national team, which won the FIFA Under-17 World Championship in 1997
