The debate over who is the best striker of all time continues to generate controversy, and this time it was Julio Baptista, former Real Madrid player, who sparked the conversation. In a recent interview, the Brazilian claimed that, although Cristiano Ronaldo has had a longer career, the "quality" of the legendary Ronaldo Nazario was on another level.

For Baptista, what the Brazilian phenomenon did on the field was simply incomparable. "What I saw from Ronaldo before his injuries was something out of this world. I never saw anyone do what he did. His quality was brutal. We need to respect his career more," the former footballer said in an interview with FootItalia.

Ronaldo, an Unmatched Legend

Ronaldo Nazario, known as "O Fenômeno," marked an era with his unique style: speed, technique, power, and deadly finishing. He won the Ballon d'Or twice, was a world champion with Brazil, and left his mark at clubs such as FC Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and AC Milan.

Baptista acknowledged that Cristiano Ronaldo has built an impressive career, full of titles and records. Notably, the Portuguese has won five Champions League titles, a European Championship, and five Ballon d'Ors, maintaining enviable athletic longevity that keeps him competing at a high level even at the age of 40.

But for the Brazilian, R9's impact goes beyond the statistics. "What he did before his injuries was insane. There needs to be more respect for that," Baptista insisted.

Ronaldo has responded before

In a previous interview, Ronaldo Nazario himself was asked about comparisons with Cristiano and made his stance clear: "I don’t like to get into these debates. I prefer people to talk about what I did, not to compare me. Cristiano Ronaldo has a fantastic career; he’s among the best in history, but not the best. For me, the number one will always be Pelé."

Ronaldo also mentioned legends like Maradona, Messi, Zico, Romário, Van Basten, Zidane, and Ronaldinho as part of the select group of players who have made history.

The debate between efficiency and magic is still open. But when it comes to natural talent, names like Ronaldo Nazario will always have a seat at the table of the greatest.