Could Ronaldo Nazario have reached Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo levels had his knee not been 'devastated' by injuries? R9's ex-team-mate gives verdict on 'incredible' Brazil legend

Ronaldo’s career was defined by brilliance, but also by devastating injuries that limited his full potential. One of the most heartbreaking moments came on April 12, 2000, during the Coppa Italia final between Inter Milan and Lazio. Having just returned from an earlier knee injury suffered in November 1999, Ronaldo lasted only six minutes before suffering a complete rupture of the tendons in his kneecap. The sight of the Brazilian superstar collapsing to the ground in agony remains one of the most emotional moments in football history. Overcome with despair, Ronaldo covered his face to hide his tears, fully aware that another long road to recovery awaited him.

After an extended period of rehabilitation, Ronaldo finally made his return to competitive football in late 2001. Just months after regaining his match fitness, Ronaldo led the Brazilian national team to World Cup glory in 2002, delivering one of the most remarkable comebacks in football history. Scoring twice in the final against Germany, he guided Brazil to their fifth World Cup title, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greatest strikers. Despite these achievements, many football fans have often debated how much more Ronaldo could have accomplished if not for the recurring knee problems that repeatedly derailed his career.

In football discussions, comparisons between past and present greats are inevitable. Ambrosini addressed this topic, offering a measured perspective on how Ronaldo Nazario stacks up against Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

In an interview with JeffBet, he said: "I don’t know if Ronaldo could’ve reached the level of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, despite him being an incredible player. He was maybe 10 kilos heavier when he was at AC Milan and his knee was devastated but he was still incredible."

While acknowledging Ronaldo’s immense talent, Ambrosini pointed out a key difference: longevity.

"I have doubts over the Messi and Ronaldo comparison because they did it at the very top level for 15 years, they are special. Ronaldo enjoyed living in a certain way," he said.

"He had the talent and the skills and would’ve got close to what Lionel Messi has done, but it’s different."

While Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated world football for over a decade, consistently breaking records and winning titles, Ronaldo Nazário’s career followed a different trajectory. His injury struggles limited his peak years, preventing him from competing at the highest level for as long as his Argentine and Portuguese counterparts.

Though Ambrosini remains uncertain about how Ronaldo would compare to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian legend’s impact on football cannot be understated. His remarkable comeback in 2002, combined with his breathtaking performances for clubs like Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid, ensure that his name will forever be synonymous with greatness.