Ronaldinho profile
Later, so as to distinguish himself from another current Brazilian great Ronaldo, he was bestowed the title Ronaldinho, which, whisper it quietly, translates as 'Little Ronaldo'.
To watch Ronaldinho is to watch the supreme master craftsman, an artist who persistently invents new ways of playing the beautiful game. He is a player that leaves not just supporters staggered by the subtlety of his skills but also his peers; a remarkable feat achieved by only the very best.
"There's no point in comparing Ronaldinho and Maradona. I think Ronaldinho is better than Maradona."
Pele
Like many to wear the gold of Brazil Ronaldinho began his football education playing Futsal and was also a lover of the beach variety that enchanted so many of the World Cup winning side of 1970.
It was here that he honed his skills so perfectly and in the process caught the eye of Gremio, his first professional club that were at the time managed by Luiz Felipe Scolari, who would play a prominent role later in his career as coach of the national team.
Having made his debut for Gremio in the Libertadores Cup in 1998, Ronaldinho quickly adapted to live in the tough surrounds of Brazilian football and won his first international call-up just a year later.
In 1999 Ronaldinho left a trail of defenders bewitched in the Copa America as his six goals helped Brazil to the title and with his appetite whetted for the highest stage, Europe soon came calling with an offer too tempting to resist.
Paris was his first port of call in 2001 as he joined PSG in a five-year deal but life in the French capital was a mixed affair. Moments of brilliance were offset by coach Luis Fernandez's disdain for the Brazilian's love of Parisian nightlife and long sojourns in his homeland.
A life-long dream was however realised in 2002 as Ronaldinho, as the final part of the 'Three R's' that also included Rivaldo and Ronaldo, helped claim the World Cup for Brazil. At the quarter final stage Ronaldinho grabbed the decisive goal against England but was then sent off for a foul on Danny Mills.
Following a suspension he returned in the final as Brazil claimed a record fifth World Cup in beating Germany 2-0. His performances had not gone unnoticed and in July 2003 he was on the move again, as Camp Nou and Barcelona welcomed his prodigious talents.
At one point in a much-protracted summer of negotiations, Manchester United looked to have won the race for his signature but having failed to agree a fee with PSG, Barcelona stepped in and secured a steal at £21 million.
Barcelona finished second in La Liga in Ronaldinho's debut campaign at the Catalan giants but the following season, 2004/05, the title was secured, as their new favourite son became an icon to the masses.
The 2004 World Player of the Year trophy was testimony to his performances and again the following year, Ronaldinho was awarded the same accolade. In 2005 he became the third Brazilian to be crowned European Player of the Year and in the same year, he captained Brazil to glory in the Confederations Cup.
Brazil head to Germany as the pre-tournament favourites but whilst nothing in football is certain, what can be claimed with some assurance is that Ronaldinho will play the game with a smile on his face and in the process bring one to the lips of all that watch him.
