Pele, Messi lead Ronaldinho tributes

Rio de Janeiro Jan 18 (IANS) Brazil football legend Pele has led a chorus of tributes for compatriot Ronaldinho whose retirement from the game prompted an outpouring of emotion and goodwill messages on the social media.

Ronaldinho s brother and agent Roberto Assis confirmed the 37-year-old s decision on Wednesday drawing the curtain on a career in which he won the World Cup the Champions League the Ballon d Or and a host of other accolades reports Xinhua news agency.

"You brought a smile to everyone s face " Pele wrote. "It was impossible to love football and not be your fan. Thank you for the show. I hope you glide through life like you glided through tackles."

Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar who briefly played with Ronaldinho in Brazil s national team said it was an "honour to be a part of your story".

"I ll always remember your happiness on the field. You ve left a legacy that will be difficult to surpass in the art of football. Thank you for everything that you did for football lovers " Neymar said.

One of the most moving messages came from Barcelona and Argentina forward Lionel Messi. The five-time Ballon d Or winner began his career at the Camp Nou when Ronaldinho was in his pomp and the two quickly struck up a bond on and off the pitch.

"I will always be thankful to you for making it easy when I arrived " Messi said.

"I was fortunate to share many things with you and I am very happy because besides being a phenomenon with the ball you are a great person and that is what is most important " he added.

Confirmation of Ronaldinho s departure which came more than two years after his last competitive match for Brazil s Fluminense also drew glowing homages from his rivals.

"Your trickery will always haunt Germany fans but 16 years on we can finally acknowledge your greatness " the German football association said referring to the 2002 World Cup in which Germany were beaten by Brazil in the final.

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas said: "You made me suffer but as a lover of football I also enjoyed it. All the best."

Barcelona and AC Milan posted videos of memorable Ronaldinho moments for their respective clubs while English Premier League outfit Chelsea showed a clip of a goal scored by the Brazilian at Stamford Bridge in a 2005 Champions League match.

"A sensational goal whoever you support. Good luck in your retirement " the London outfit said.

--IANS
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