Contents
Rivaldo
Combining spectacular goals for Barcelona with a central role in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup win.
Ballon d’Or · Valencia hat-trick
- Born
- 19 April 1972
- Birthplace
- Recife, Brazil
More people
Rivaldo
A Brazilian attacker whose left foot produced powerful shots, free kicks and improvised finishes. He played across several countries after his peak years in Spain.
Early life
Recife childhood
Grew up in poverty and developed through local football.
Brazilian clubs
Progressed through clubs including Santa Cruz and Mogi Mirim before national prominence.
Career
- 1994–1996
Palmeiras
Established himself as a leading Brazilian attacker.
- 1996–1997
Deportivo
Moved to Spain before joining Barcelona.
- 1997–2002
Barcelona
Won league titles and the Ballon d’Or.
- 2002 onward
Later career
Played for Milan and clubs in Greece, Uzbekistan and Brazil.
Achievements
Ballon d’Or
Won after a major season for club and country.
Valencia hat-trick
A late overhead kick completed a decisive three-goal performance.
World Cup
Scored five goals as Brazil won the tournament.
Beyond football
Family football
Played alongside his son Rivaldinho at Mogi Mirim.
Club involvement
Also held leadership responsibilities at Mogi Mirim.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Ballon d’Or award record ↗Photo: Laura Cortizo/Portal da Copa. CC BY 3.0 br · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
