Does Ronaldinho still play football? That’s the question many fans keep asking as the years roll by. Once one of the most dazzling players on the planet, Ronaldinho made jaws drop with his flair, creativity, and magical touches on the ball. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just curious about one of the sport’s most charismatic figures, you’re probably wondering if he’s still kicking a ball around somewhere. Let’s take a closer look at his current situation and what he’s up to these days.

For those who lived through the early 2000s, Ronaldinho was a household name. His rise to fame with Paris Saint-Germain and later Barcelona was nothing short of spectacular. He was the kind of player who could change the game with a single moment of brilliance. But like all great athletes, time catches up, and careers come to a close. So, what’s he doing now, and is he still involved in the game that made him a global icon?

There’s a lot of confusion out there about whether Ronaldinho still plays football. Some people claim they’ve seen him in exhibition matches, while others wonder if he’s coaching or mentoring young players. Let’s cut through the noise and find out the truth behind the question: does Ronaldinho still play football?

• Courtney Anne Mitchell

Table of Contents

• Biography of Ronaldinho
• Ronaldinho's Current Football Status
• Career Highlights and Legacy
• What Is Ronaldinho Doing Now?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho came into the world on March 21, 1980, in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Known for his infectious smile and unmatched creativity on the pitch, he quickly rose through the ranks of Brazilian football. He began his professional career at Grêmio before moving to Europe, where he became a global superstar. His time at Barcelona is often considered the peak of his career, where he won the Ballon d'Or and helped the club win La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. He officially retired from professional football in 2018, marking the end of a legendary career.

Ronaldinho's Current Football Status

So, does Ronaldinho still play football? The short answer is no, he doesn't play professionally anymore. Ronaldinho officially retired from professional football on January 16, 2018. He was 37 years old at the time. Since then, he’s mostly been out of the spotlight in terms of regular competition, but that doesn’t mean he’s completely disappeared from the game.

It’s worth noting that even though he’s not playing in official leagues or competitions, Ronaldinho has been spotted in charity matches, exhibition games, and football festivals. These appearances are more about celebrating the game and entertaining fans than actual competition. He still has the magic in his feet, but it’s definitely more of a fun activity than a serious pursuit.

• Chelsea Noble

Some fans say they’ve seen him training or playing with amateur teams, but there’s no official record of him signing with any team or participating in competitive leagues. If he does play now, it’s for the love of the game, not for contracts or titles.

Career Highlights and Legacy

When you ask, “does Ronaldinho still play football?”, it’s worth reflecting on what made him such a beloved figure in the first place. Ronaldinho was more than just a player—he was an entertainer, a magician, and a joy to watch. His career spanned two decades and included some of the most memorable moments in modern football history.

He was a key part of the Brazilian national team that won the 2002 World Cup, dazzling the world with his skills. At Barcelona, he became a global icon, winning the Ballon d'Or in 2005 and leading the team to two La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy. His partnership with Samuel Eto’o and Deco made Barcelona one of the most exciting teams in Europe.

Even after leaving Barcelona, Ronaldinho continued to shine at AC Milan in Italy and later in Brazil with clubs like Flamengo and Atlético Mineiro. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver moments of brilliance made him a fan favorite wherever he went.

What Is Ronaldinho Doing Now?

Since hanging up his boots, Ronaldinho has taken a more relaxed approach to life. While he’s not actively playing, he’s still very much connected to the footballing world. He often appears at charity events, football festivals, and promotional campaigns. He’s also been involved in football academies and youth development programs in Brazil.

In 2020, Ronaldinho made headlines for a very different reason—he was arrested in Paraguay and later detained in Brazil over issues related to fake passports. That incident definitely put a spotlight on his personal life, but since his release, he’s been slowly returning to the public eye in a positive way.

He’s also dabbled in music and entertainment, showing off a side of him that many fans didn’t know existed. Ronaldinho released a few songs and even performed at festivals, proving he’s not just a football legend but a multi-talented individual.

If you’re looking to see him in action, your best bet is to catch one of his appearances in exhibition matches. These games are more about fun and entertainment than actual competition, but it’s always a treat to see a legend like Ronaldinho back on the pitch, even if just for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ronaldinho still playing football in 2025?

As of 2025, Ronaldinho is not playing professional football. He officially retired in 2018 and has only made occasional appearances in exhibition matches and charity games.

Has Ronaldinho coached any football teams?

Ronaldinho has not taken on any formal coaching roles. However, he has been involved in football academies and youth development programs, sharing his knowledge and passion with young players.

Where can I watch Ronaldinho play football now?

You might catch Ronaldinho in charity matches, football festivals, or special events. These are usually announced on social media or through football organizations, so keep an eye out if you’re hoping to see him in action.

Football has changed a lot since Ronaldinho first stepped onto the pitch, but his impact on the game is timeless. Even though he’s not playing competitively anymore, his legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and in the skills of young players who grew up idolizing him. So, while the answer to “does Ronaldinho still play football” is no, he’s still very much a part of the beautiful game in spirit and celebration.