Former Pakistan fast-bowling star Shoaib Akhtar has revealed that he would have followed the playing style of Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário if he had chosen football over cricket. The legendary pacer said R9’s fearless attitude, skills and attacking style matched the qualities he would have brought to the football field.
Ronaldo Nazário, widely known as R9, became one of football’s most celebrated players. He played a major role in Brazil’s 2002 FIFA World Cup triumph and won the Golden Boot during the tournament as Brazil secured its fifth World Cup title.
Akhtar Compares His Playing Style With R9
During a discussion, Shoaib Akhtar said he would have played like Ronaldo Nazário because of his aggressive approach and exceptional control.
“If I had been a footballer, I’d have been Ronaldo Nazário. Deshat (terror), badmash (mischievous), dribble, control, all ingredients in one man,” Shoaib Akhtar said.
The former cricketer also joked about his famous speed and claimed that his pace would have challenged both Ronaldo Nazário and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“And brother, if I ran properly, then R9 and CR7 would be left behind,” he said.
Meanwhile, a panelist suggested that Akhtar could have played like French football icon Zinedine Zidane. However, Akhtar responded humorously by saying his style would have been more physical.
“I would have hit a lot! I would have broken many legs!” he joked.
Shoaib Akhtar Praises Lionel Messi’s Career
Apart from Ronaldo Nazário, Akhtar also admired Argentine superstar Lionel Messi. He described Messi as one of the greatest footballers in history.
The former fast bowler highlighted Messi’s eight Ballon d’Or awards and his remarkable collection of trophies throughout his career.
“Eight Ballon d’Ors, a 48-trophy streak, the greatest man to walk on planet Earth as a footballer, the young Messi. I mean, what can I say about him?” Akhtar said.
Furthermore, Akhtar praised Messi’s fitness and consistency. He claimed that the Argentine star recently played between 18 and 22 hours of football in a single month.
“Recently, just in a month, he played around 18 hours of football. Eighteen to 22 hours of football he played,” Shoaib Akhtar said.
Akhtar Appreciates Spain’s World Cup Performance
Shoaib Akhtar also praised Spain’s performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He admired the team’s tactical planning, attacking football, squad balance and effective substitutions throughout the tournament.
“But hats off to Spain, man. Their team was very good. I mean, they’re just fabulous. They were just tremendous throughout the tournament,” he said.
When asked about his favourite footballer, Akhtar once again selected Ronaldo Nazário. However, he also mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo, joking that he had to include CR7 because his son was watching the interview.
Football Legends Helped Grow the Sport Globally
Later, Shoaib Akhtar discussed how football evolved over the years and credited several legendary players for increasing the sport’s worldwide popularity.
He mentioned Diego Maradona, Ronaldo Nazário, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo among the players who transformed football. He also praised modern stars, including Kylian Mbappé and Neymar, for attracting millions of fans.
Akhtar said these football icons played an important role in increasing the commercial value of the sport. He added that their performances helped raise broadcasting rights values and inspired young athletes worldwide.
“Because of these legends, football benefited so much. Because of these legends, how much football sold! Imagine the rights; where did the prices go? Imagine how many people got inspired!” he added.
The former Pakistan cricketer’s comments showed his admiration for football’s biggest names and the impact these players have made beyond the sport. His choice of Ronaldo Nazário reflected his appreciation for players who combined skill, confidence and an attacking mindset.
