“Is Ronaldinho still playing?” — it’s a question fans across the globe have asked over the years, especially as time has passed since his dazzling prime. Known for his flair, creativity, and unforgettable smile on the pitch, Ronaldinho once lit up stadiums from Barcelona to AC Milan. But now, as he nears his 45th birthday, many wonder — is he still lacing up the boots for a match? The short answer: he’s not playing professionally anymore. But the longer story? It’s a bit more nuanced, and quite fascinating.

Football fans who grew up watching Ronaldinho’s magic moments still get a little thrill at the mention of his name. His iconic free kicks, cheeky nutmegs, and the sheer joy he brought to the game made him a global icon. So, when someone searches “is Ronaldinho still playing,” they’re not just looking for a yes or no — they’re trying to reconnect with a piece of football history. And that’s exactly what we’re here for.

Whether you’re a die-hard Barcelona supporter, a Brazilian football lover, or just curious about where your favorite players end up after retirement, this article is for you. We’ll take a deep dive into Ronaldinho’s current status, his career highlights, and what he’s been up to since hanging up his boots. So, let’s start with the basics — who is Ronaldinho, really?

• Dominique Geisendorff

Table of Contents

• Ronaldinho Gaúcho: A Football Legend’s Biography
• A Career That Lit Up the Football World
• Ronaldinho’s Retirement: When Did He Stop Playing?
• Is Ronaldinho Still Playing Football in 2025?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho Gaúcho: A Football Legend’s Biography

Ronaldo de Assis Moreira, better known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho (or simply Ronaldinho), was born on March 21, 1980, in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He’s one of the most iconic players in football history, celebrated not just for his skill but for the joy he brought to the game. From his early days in Brazil to his legendary stints in Europe, Ronaldinho has always been a name that brings a smile to fans’ faces.

Here's a quick overview of Ronaldinho's personal and professional life:

A Career That Lit Up the Football World

Ronaldinho’s journey in professional football was nothing short of magical. He started his career at Grêmio in Brazil before moving to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2001. But it was at FC Barcelona where he truly became a global phenomenon. Under coach Frank Rijkaard, Ronaldinho was the heart of a revitalized Barça team, winning La Liga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy in 2006.

• Thomas Ceccon

His Ballon d’Or win in 2005 was a testament to his brilliance — he was the best player on the planet at that time. With his signature grin and incredible skills, Ronaldinho didn’t just play football; he made it look like a dance. He’d pull off moves that seemed impossible, and opponents often stood still, watching him in awe rather than trying to stop him.

After Barcelona, he moved to AC Milan in 2008, where he continued to dazzle, though not quite at the same level. In 2011, he returned to Brazil, playing for clubs like Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro, and Fluminense. He even had a short spell in Mexico with Querétaro before officially calling time on his professional career in 2018.

Ronaldinho’s Retirement: When Did He Stop Playing?

Ronaldinho officially retired from professional football in 2018, after a glittering 20-year career. However, it's worth noting that he hadn't played for a professional club since 2015. After leaving Fluminense, he didn’t sign with any major team, and his focus gradually shifted away from competitive football.

His brother and agent, Assis, confirmed his retirement in a statement, saying that Ronaldinho would now focus on other ventures and spend more time with family. While he did participate in a few friendly matches and charity games after retiring, these were more about keeping the spirit of football alive rather than a serious comeback.

In fact, in 2022, Ronaldinho made headlines when he played in a friendly match in Barcelona, showing off his trademark skills. But it was more of a nostalgic return rather than a full-time revival. So, to answer the big question — no, Ronaldinho is not playing professionally anymore. But that doesn’t mean he’s completely out of the football world.

Is Ronaldinho Still Playing Football in 2025?

The short answer: not in a professional sense. Ronaldinho is now 44 years old, and while age hasn’t stopped some legends from playing at a high level (looking at you, Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović), the Brazilian maestro has chosen a different path.

He does, however, continue to play football — just not in a competitive or professional context. You might catch him in charity matches, exhibition games, or even street football events where he shows off his legendary flair. These appearances are more about keeping his connection with the game alive and inspiring younger players rather than chasing titles or contracts.

In recent years, Ronaldinho has taken on more of a mentorship and ambassadorial role in football. He’s involved in youth development programs in Brazil, helps promote football festivals, and occasionally joins in on exhibition matches that bring together football legends. So while he’s not playing in front of tens of thousands in a stadium, he’s still very much present in the world of football.

And let’s not forget — Ronaldinho has also had his share of personal challenges, including a brief stint in prison in Paraguay in 2020 for using a fake passport. That said, he seems to have put those troubles behind him and is currently living life on his own terms. So, while he’s not playing professionally, he’s still very much alive and active in the football community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ronaldinho

Is Ronaldinho still alive?
Yes, Ronaldinho is alive and well in 2025. Despite some online rumors and confusion (which sometimes spread quickly on social media), the Brazilian icon is very much around and continues to make appearances at football events and charity functions.

Has Ronaldinho ever returned to play professionally after retirement?
No, Ronaldinho has not returned to professional football since retiring in 2018. He has played in a few exhibition matches and friendly games, but these are more about fun and nostalgia than a serious comeback.

Is Ronaldinho still involved in football in any way?
Absolutely! While he’s not playing professionally, Ronaldinho remains deeply connected to the sport. He’s involved in football development, charity initiatives, and often appears in exhibitions or promotional events. He’s also been linked to various football academies and youth programs in Brazil and abroad.

Final Thoughts

So, to wrap it up — is Ronaldinho still playing? Technically, no, he’s not playing professional football anymore. He officially retired in 2018, and there’s no indication he plans to return to the pitch in a competitive setting. However, he still plays football in a more casual, fun-filled way — whether it’s in exhibitions, charity games, or even just kicking a ball around with fans and friends.

If you’re a fan wondering where he is now, know that Ronaldinho is still very much part of the football world. He’s a living legend, and his impact on the game will never fade. Whether you saw him live or just watched his highlights online, his legacy lives on through every young player who tries a rainbow flick or a no-look pass.

For more updates on football legends and their post-career journeys, learn more about football history on our site. And if you’re curious about how other stars have handled retirement, check out our other player profiles for insights into life after the spotlight.