Ronaldinho’s Age at the 2002 World Cup
When Brazil lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2002, the world also witnessed the rise of a new football icon: Ronaldinho. Born on 21 March 1980, the Brazilian forward turned 22 years old during the tournament that ran from 31 May to 30 June 2002. His youthful energy, combined with technical brilliance, made him one of the standout players of the competition.
How the Age Was Calculated
The calculation is straightforward. Ronaldinho’s birthdate (21 March 1980) placed him at 22 years, 2 months, and roughly 10 days old on the opening day of the World Cup. By the final on 30 June, he was 22 years and 3 months old. This age is frequently highlighted in articles that use the keyword “Ronaldinho 2002 World Cup age,” because it underscores how young he was when he contributed to Brazil’s triumph.
Why Age Matters in Football History
At 22, Ronaldinho was still in the early stages of his professional career. He had just burst onto the scene on his FIFA video‑game cover, a cultural moment that signaled his emerging global popularity. Compared with many World Cup veterans, his age placed him among the tournament’s youngest stars, yet his performances carried the confidence of a seasoned champion.
Brazil’s 2002 Campaign in Numbers
- Brazil scored a total of 18 goals en route to lifting the trophy.
- Ronaldinho appeared in six of Brazil’s seven matches, starting in three.
- He contributed two assists and was involved in several key attacking moves.
- The tournament featured a famous quarter
