Emotional farewell for legendary forward Ronaldo

Updated on: 09 June,2011 08:17 AM IST |
Agencies |

Brazil forward legend Ronaldo said farewell to the nation's fans yesterday in an emotional final match against Romania, and spoke from the pitch as the Selecao eased to a comfortable 1-0 victory in the friendly encounter.

Mano Menezes' side triumphed 1-0 thanks to a Fred goal in the first half, but throughout the game, the two-time World Cup winner was the centre of attention.

Fans did not have to wait long to see him in action, as 30 minutes in, the goalscorer was withdrawn to allow the ex-Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter and AC Milan star to take the pitch. Ronaldo desperately coveted a goal during a 15-minute cameo that brought the curtain down on his exceptional career. So too did the spectators, who showered the 34-year-old in applause.

However, despite three chances, the 34-year-old was unable score. At half-time, during an emotional commemoration Ronaldo expressed extreme gratitude to the supporters. "Forgive me, I had three chances but couldn't score a goal, which would have been a small reward for everything you've done for me," he said. "Huge thanks for everything you've done for my career, for accepting me the way I am, for crying when I cried, for smiling when I smiled. I simply have to thank you from the bottom of my heart."