Ronaldinho returns at 46 to play first competitive match in 11 years

Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldinho made a surprise return to professional football at the age of 46, starting his first competitive match in 11 years for Italian third-tier side Ravenna. Wearing the number 10 shirt, Ronaldinho played the entire first half in Ravenna's Serie C derby against Forli, which the team won 2-0. Ronaldinho played a crucial role in Giulio Donati's opening goal in the 36th minute and Simone Rabbi added the second goal in the 58th minute.

The former AC Milan forward expressed his joy at returning to the pitch and playing alongside teammates who grew up watching him. Ronaldinho, who last played professionally for Fluminense in September 2015 before formally retiring in 2018, had also taken a stake in the club. He announced his signing with Ravenna in June.

Ronaldinho reflected on his brief return to football, saying, "It went by too fast, that has always been football for me." He also hinted at the possibility of another appearance for Ravenna, stating that if the club's president, Ignazio Cipriani, calls him, he will be back.