Cristiano Ronaldo is often regarded as the “Goat” in football by many because he is a man who recognises brilliance when he sees it. However, what would happen if Ronaldo—a living superstar in his own right—was asked to choose his favourite players from other sports? The Portuguese celebrity recently launched his YouTube channel, UR Cristiano. There is a video on the channel, where Ronaldo selects his favourite sportsmen in a “This or That” sports challenge, igniting disputes and provoking discussions among followers. Ronaldo’s choices demonstrate not only his respect for other sports legends but also his in-depth knowledge of what it takes to be the best in any field.
Michael Jordan vs. Stephen Curry: Basketball’s Giants
The question of who should be crowned the greatest of all time in basketball has been a contentious one for many years. Two legends from separate periods, Michael Jordan and Stephen Curry, have different approaches and ideologies.
Despite being aware of Curry’s influence on modern basketball, Ronaldo instinctively leans towards Jordan. Jordan’s combination of leadership qualities, skill, and enduring influence, in Ronaldo’s opinion, makes him the greatest player in basketball history.
Like numerous others, Ronaldo is extremely respectful of Michael Jordan’s legacy. Jordan has made a lasting impression on the NBA with his six NBA titles, five MVP honours, and unmatched winning mentality. Jordan evolved from a player to a worldwide symbol who established expectations on and off the court.
Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal: Titans of Tennis
Few rivalries in tennis have captured fans’ attention as much as the current conflict between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. By continuously pushing the limits of the game, these players have redefined brilliance and set new records. For someone who values mental toughness and resilience like Ronaldo, this option is especially difficult.
Pretending to be in Queen. In Queens. 🗽 pic.twitter.com/JoyP6NYHYe
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 21, 2024
When making his decision, Ronaldo shuts his eyes and tilts slightly in the direction of the Serbian Olympic gold medallist, but he pauses to acknowledge both the exceptional obstacles that Nadal poses and his remarkable accomplishments. Ronaldo believes that both players are the pinnacle of what it takes to be a tennis great.
The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan: Wrestling Icons
Few names in the world of professional wrestling are as well-known as Hulk Hogan and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Though they took quite different routes to become the best, each has transcended the game and become independent cultural icons.
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Ronaldo finds it difficult to decide between Hogan and The Rock. But The Rock has the advantage because of his appreciation for The Rock’s adaptability and crossover success. Ronaldo believes that The Rock is the epitome of an entertainer, a master of both the technical skills of professional wrestling and the art of deeply connecting with an audience.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s GOATs Across Sports: Brady, UFC, and Beyond
The excellence that Cristiano Ronaldo admires crosses into the categories of basketball, tennis, and wrestling. In recognition of NFL quarterback Tom Brady’s extraordinary success and durability in football, the Al Nassr star also chose Brady over Tiger Woods.
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Ronaldo’s preference for the UFC over boxing, tennis over golf, and Formula 1 over Moto GP are all expected decisions. He favours tennis’ fierce intensity over golf’s patience. It was expected he picked F1 given that his love of cars and his luxurious collection are well known. His love for UFC is also very well known as the Portuguese had many friendly encounters with many UFC stars like Khabib and McGregor. A portion of Ronaldo’s choices seem to reflect his admiration for the sports that need such raw athleticism and intensity.
Thinking About the Future
At 39, Ronaldo is approaching the end of his storied career. His recent foray into a new YouTube initiative suggests that he may be thinking about life beyond football. Ronaldo is obviously planning forward, even though his 35 goals from the previous season, which put him atop the Saudi Pro League’s scoring chart, demonstrate that he is still a great player. His selection of the greatest athletes of all time in a variety of sports is a reflection of his passion for athletics as well as his ideas about what it takes to be a great person off the field.
