Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: Criticism Mounts Against Ronaldo; Kohli’s Old Warning Resurfaces
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has faced intense criticism following Portugal's 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Even at the age of 41, the responsibility of leading Portugal's attack rests on his shoulders. However, the star—who holds the record for 143 international goals—was a shadow of his former self in this opening game. This has drawn the ire of football pundits and fans alike, with questions even being raised about his inclusion in the squad. Yet, amidst this barrage of criticism, a warning issued three years ago by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has regained relevance. Three years ago, the 'Riyadh All-Stars'—a team comprising stars from Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr—faced PSG. In that match against a PSG side boasting Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé, Ronaldo scored twice to lead his team to a 4-3 victory. Following that performance, Kohli lashed out at critics on social media, noting that Ronaldo was still playing at the highest level at age 38. He pointed out that those who criticized him weekly merely for attention had conveniently fallen silent after such a display against one of the world's top clubs—despite claims that Ronaldo's career was over. It is true that Ronaldo is no longer in the devastating form he displayed during his days at Manchester United, Real Madrid, or Juventus. However, many overlook the fact that he scored 28 goals in 30 matches for Al-Nassr during the recently concluded 2025-26 season.
Beyond his ability to spearhead Portugal's attack, his biggest current shortcoming is a lack of chemistry with his teammates, many of whom play in faster-paced and more demanding leagues. While constructive criticism of a legend like Ronaldo is certainly valid, there should be a limit when it comes to mocking one of football history's greatest icons. Following Portugal's exit from the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Kohli took to social media to express his deep respect for Ronaldo, stating that no trophy or title could erase the latter's contribution to the sport and his impact on sports fans worldwide. He described the way Ronaldo inspires people as a unique gift from God, hailing him as the embodiment of hard work and dedication—and, in his view, the greatest of all time. In a 2019 interview, Kohli had even remarked that Ronaldo’s work ethic is unparalleled and that every match he plays serves as an inspiration.
Just as Kohli has repeatedly silenced critics and proven his greatness on the cricket field, Ronaldo displays a similar mindset on the football pitch. Every setback fuels the Portuguese star with the drive to reinvent himself and prove his detractors wrong. As Portugal prepares to fight for a comeback in the remaining group-stage matches of the 2026 World Cup, the football world eagerly awaits a performance that showcases Ronaldo at his absolute best.