Ronaldinho is still one of the most loved names in football, even years after he stopped playing. The Brazilian legend retired in 2018, but his life has stayed busy and full of attention. In April 2026, a new Netflix documentary, Ronaldinho: The One and Only, gave fans a fresh look at his journey, both on and off the field. Today, Ronaldinho travels around the world, joins charity games, and works on brand deals. His estimated net worth is around $90 million, built from football, endorsements, and appearances. Even now, wherever he goes, fans gather just to see that famous smile.But his story is not just about success. It also includes tough moments like family loss, legal trouble, and financial issues. The new documentary shows both sides of his life in a simple and honest way.
Ronaldinho’s journey from Porto Alegre roots to global football icon with FC Barcelona and Brazil
Ronaldinho, whose full name is Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, grew up in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Football was part of his daily life because his father and brother also played. But when he was just eight years old, his father João Moreira died in a tragic accident.Years later, Ronaldinho wrote in The Players’ Tribune, “You’re not going to feel sadness right away… but every time you have a ball at your feet, Dad will be with you.”That pain turned into motivation. He started his professional career with Grêmio in 1998. Soon, European clubs noticed him. He joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2001, but his real rise came after moving to Barcelona in 2003.At FC Barcelona, he became a global star. He played with names like Lionel Messi and helped the team win La Liga titles and the Champions League in 2006. He also won the Ballon d’Or in 2005 and was named FIFA World Player of the Year twice. Later, he played for AC Milan and clubs in Brazil, including Atlético Mineiro, where he won the Copa Libertadores in 2013.On the international stage, Ronaldinho played a key role in Brazil’s 2002 FIFA World Cup win. His famous free kick goal against England is still talked about today. Brazil went on to beat Germany 2-0 in the final.Off the field, his life had ups and downs. He faced legal trouble in Paraguay in 2020 and dealt with financial issues. Still, he stayed close to football and his fans.Now, his son João Mendes is trying to follow his path. João trained at Barcelona’s academy and later joined clubs in England like Burnley and Hull City’s youth system. Ronaldinho once said in a 2023 interview with RAC-1, “Barcelona is part of life… with my son arriving, I’ll be more present than ever.”Today, football star Ronaldinho enjoys a calmer life but remains a global icon. The Netflix documentary shares his full story in his own voice, showing the man behind the magic.
