Brazilian star Ronaldinho retires from professional football at 37

Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37, according to his agent and brother Roberto Assis on Tuesday (16th January).

His brother Roberto Assis said in a column for Brazil media outlet O Globo and revealed plans for farewell tribute events following the 2018 World Cup.

“He has stopped, it is ended,” Assis said. “Let’s do something pretty big and nice after the Russia World Cup, probably in August."

"We will do various events in Brazil, Europe and Asia and, of course, we are arranging something with the Brazilian team as well,” he added.

Ronaldinho's career began with Gremio in Porto Alegre, his hometown, before he emerged as a star with French giants PSG.

He along with Ronaldo and Rivaldo led the Brazilian team to victory in 2002 World Cup.

His performance during the World Cup drew interest from Spanish giant, Barcelona and he finally joined the club in 2003.

He spent 5 years at Camp Nou and won the 2006 Champions League and was awarded the 2005 Ballon d’Or.

After a period of huge success, he faced disappointment. Poor 2006 World Cup and missing out on selection in 2010.

He reportedly lost focus at Barcelona and was sold to Milan but he proved his abilities there and won the Serie A title in 2010/11.

He played his last match in 2015 during a brief stint with Fluminense.