CRISTIANO RONALDO has revealed how the death of his
father forced him to grow up and ultimately proved the making of
him as a person and a player.
Ronaldo's father Dinis died two years ago aged 51 and the
Manchester United winger has found it difficult to talk about the
tragedy.
But in a rare insight into his personal life, the double Player of
the Year revealed the effect his father's death had on him and
admitted it has helped him cope with other adversities he has faced
as a player.
"It was a very difficult moment," said Ronaldo. "It's not normal to
lose your father at 20 years of age and you learn a great many
things about yourself at such times.
"One has to be strong, and I have certainly changed a lot in the
past two years. I certainly don't have any fear when I go out to
play now.
"Family is the most important support I have. I think if you don't
have a good relationship with your family, then everything becomes
more difficult.
"My father was No.1 in my life. He is always in my heart. I have a
picture of him in my house which I put up in a high position, so I
know he is always watching over me. I remember all the good things
about him. He helped me a lot.
"I give grace to God for giving me a great family - my mother, my
sisters, my brother, my cousins, even my brother-in-law.
"They have all been very important people in my life." Ronaldo's
dad suffered with a chronic liver condition due to heavy drinking
and the Portuguese star invested time and money in order to find
the best treatment.
But it was while on international duty in September 2005 that
Ronaldo received the news from Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari
that his father had passed away.
Ronaldo has overcome the trauma of losing his father and the
ongoing hostility of opposition fans in England to become one of
the most sought - after players in Europe with a £45million price
tag.
And the United star, who signed a new £110,000-aweek deal last
season, admitted the problems he has endured over the past few
years had been vital to his development.
"Already in my career, I've passed some very bad situations," said
Ronaldo. "But that happens to everybody.
"It's so important for a player to have his head in the right
place. If you don't have your head in the right place, it becomes
difficult."
