In the first of a series of articles looking at the secrets of the world’s top sportsmen and women, leading mind coach Dr Stephen Simpson looks at the skills of Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and asks:
C
ristiano Ronaldo, one of Real Madrid’s star players, holds numerous records and has won many prestigious titles. He is a prolific striker, and is the first
European league player to score 40 goals in a single season, not just once, but twice in consecutive seasons. Described as the complete footballer,
equally proficient scoring with his head, either foot, or even his body, he is equally comfortable with static ball situations, such as taking penalties, free kicks, and corners, as well as tackling and dribbling at high speed. He is also extremely fit, and carries 3% less body fat than a supermodel. Not surprisingly Cristiano is one of the
most popular players in the world - and one of the highest paid. So what goes on in his head, and how can you use this knowledge in your favourite sport? Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, offers
some revealing clues, highlighting Cristiano’s air of arrogance, and his belief that he is number one. Where do you wish to draw your personal
line between being arrogant, and possessing self belief? My suggestion is to err on the side of arrogance. It may lose you friends and invite hostile criticism, but your inner arrogance will enable you to perform at the top your ability. Remember, though, It is a