Cristiano Ronaldo, at the age of 39, is about to make history by playing in his sixth European Championship. His remarkable longevity in the sport of soccer is truly awe-inspiring. Another player defying age is Luka Modrić, who is 38 and still performing at a high level for Real Madrid. He will be a key player for Croatia in the upcoming Euros in Germany, which kick off on June 14th.
The trend in modern soccer is for top players to extend their careers well beyond what was previously thought possible. Despite the fast pace and high intensity of today’s game, athletes like Ronaldo and Modrić are continuing to excel. This can be attributed to advancements in sports science that focus on improving fitness, stamina, and overall performance through specialized training programs, diet, and lifestyle changes.
Tony Strudwick, a renowned sports scientist with decades of experience in soccer, believes that advancements in the field have played a crucial role in allowing players to extend their careers. Strudwick has worked with top clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and the England national team, and currently serves as the director of medical at West Bromwich Albion. He praises Ronaldo’s professionalism and dedication to his craft, noting that it has contributed significantly to his longevity in the sport.
As Ronaldo approaches his 40th birthday, he shows no signs of slowing down. Thanks to the continuous advancements in sports science, players like him are redefining what is possible in terms of career length. The shift towards a more professional mindset, combined with increased accountability and knowledge about maximizing performance, has created a new era where players can continue to excel well into their late thirties and beyond.