Brazilian football legend Rivaldo retires

Rivaldo hangs up his boots

Brazilian footballing legend and icon Rivaldo Vítor Borba Ferreira has announced his retirement from international football.

The 41 year old said in an emotional interview,

“With tears in my eyes today I would like first to thank God, my family and all the support, the affection that I received during those 24 years as a player. Today I communicate to all my fans in the world , my history as a player came to the end.

“Just I have to thank the lovely career I have built over this years. There were many obstacles, challenges, waivers, longings, disappointments, but were much greater joys, achievements, growth, change. Sometimes teaching other learning but never lost my focus, always with dedication, determination and direction of God. In this long journey, many people passed through my life, some for a period, other friends who remain until now.”

Rivaldo, who made 505 appearance in his club career and 74 appearances for his country, revealed that the journey was a hard fought one and something he will never forget,

“I built my career upon a miracle, leaving in Paulista, no financial resources, no businessman, incentives only of my family, discredited by doctors and trainers, saw a distant dream come true. With persistence, dedication and especially with the hand of God, I came to be recognized as the best player in the world, world champion, among many other important titles in the history of football.

“Among trophies, medals, awards and titles, in a land where everything is consumed, here I leave a story, perhaps an example, but surely a testimony that is worth believing and fighting. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

Rivaldo’s last club was Mogi Mirim, with whom he has had 3 spells. The attacking midfielder has a World cup medal which he won in 2002.