Vitor Rivaldo Football player Date of Birth: 19.04.1972 Country: Brazil

1. Biography of Vitor Borba Ferreira Rivaldo
2. The Barcelona-Valencia Match
3. Playing Positions and Transfer Rumors
4. Philanthropy and Personal Life
5. The Golden Ball Award

Biography of Vitor Borba Ferreira Rivaldo

Vitor Borba Ferreira Rivaldo, commonly known as Rivaldo, is a Brazilian footballer who played as an attacking midfielder and forward. He is remembered for his incredible skills on the field and his ability to change the outcome of a match.

The Barcelona-Valencia Match

One of the most memorable moments in Rivaldo's career came during the Barcelona-Valencia match in the final round of the Spanish league. Rivaldo's performance captivated football fans around the world. Despite Barcelona's struggles throughout the season, Rivaldo was the stand-out player in the game, constantly posing a threat to Valencia's defense. The match was tied 2-2, and in the final minute, Rivaldo received a pass from Frank de Boer, controlled the ball with his chest, and scored a stunning goal to secure the victory for Barcelona.

Playing Positions and Transfer Rumors

Rivaldo's versatility allowed him to play various positions on the field, including withdrawn striker, playmaker, and winger. His former teammate Luis Figo became the world's most expensive footballer after his transfer to Real Madrid, but it was Rivaldo who became the highest-paid player in the world following his move to Milan. Numerous clubs, including AC Milan, expressed interest in signing Rivaldo, and the Milan president, Silvio Berlusconi, offered him an annual salary twice his earnings at Barcelona. Eventually, Rivaldo chose to stay with Barcelona, and the club's president, Joan Gaspart, increased his salary to an estimated $6.07 million per year.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Beyond his success on the field, Rivaldo has shown a commitment to philanthropy. He established a foundation in his hometown of Hardim Paulista, Brazil, which provides food and clothing to the local community and built a school for underprivileged children. Rivaldo prefers not to discuss his charitable work, stating that he does not seek personal recognition.

Off the field, Rivaldo leads a disciplined lifestyle. He avoids nightclubs, is punctual for training sessions, and keeps a low profile in the media. His free time is dedicated to his family, including his son Rivaldinho and his young daughter Tamiris. Rivaldo is also known for his love of technology, spending time playing computer games when he is not training or spending time with his family.

The Golden Ball Award

In 1999, Rivaldo received the prestigious Golden Ball award from FIFA, which is given to the best football player in the world. Instead of keeping the trophy for himself, Rivaldo convinced a hesitant jeweler to cut it into 60 identical pieces and engrave the names and words of gratitude for everyone who contributed to his success. He distributed these pieces to his Barcelona teammates, coaches, doctors, masseurs, and even the club's laundry attendant, who washed his football jersey daily.

Rivaldo's dedication to the sport, his versatile playing style, and his philanthropic efforts make him one of the most respected figures in football. His impact on and off the field has left a lasting legacy in the world of football.