For me Sir Alex was my father in football. He was crucial in my career and, outside football, was a great human being with me. Talent isn't everything. You can have it from the cradle, but it is necessary to learn the trade to be the best.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of mentorship and hard work in achieving greatness, beyond just natural talent.
Cristiano Ronaldo reflects on the significant impact Sir Alex Ferguson had on his career, highlighting that while talent is important, it must be complemented by learning and guidance to truly excel. This tribute underscores the value of leadership and the human qualities that contribute to personal and professional development.
In practice
During a motivational speech for young athletes, this quote can illustrate the importance of guidance and dedication.
There's no point in making predictions. It's not worth speculating because nothing is set in stone and things change all the time in football. Today there are opportunities that no one knows if they will come round again in the future.
Without football, my life is worth nothing.
After we played Sporting last week, the lads in the dressing room talked about him constantly, and on the plane back from the game they urged me to sign him. That's how highly they rated him.
Scoring goals is a great feeling, but the most important thing to me is that the team is successful - it doesn't matter who scores the goals as long as we're winning.
My father was always in good spirits, he loved football. It makes me a bit sad because if he could enjoy seeing me now, what I have achieved, that would be a highlight in his life. But I'm sure that he watches over me from above.
I feel endless need to LEARN, to IMPROVE, to EVOLVE, not only to please the coach and the fans, but also to feel SATISFIED with myself
I just wanted to play tennis. It wasn't a job. It was an ambition. I knew I could make money at it. I was 18 - old enough to think I could do it, young enough not to consider the consequences.
First gain the victory and then make the best use of it you can.
Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.
When it’s too easy to get money, then you get a lot of noise mixed in with the real innovation and entrepreneurship. Tough times bring out the best parts of Silicon Valley.
No illusion is more crucial than the illusion that great success and huge money buy you immunity from the common ills of mankind, such as cars that won't start.
Everybody told me I was making a mistake by going into this business, but I know how to grow hair as well as I know how to grow cotton.
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