MADRID (AP) — Brazilian football icon and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has successfully undergone cardiac surgery following the discovery of a heart condition during a routine examination. The 52-year-old former defender, currently serving as an ambassador for Real Madrid, was vacationing in his native Brazil when medical professionals identified an irregularity in his heart function.
The health concern emerged unexpectedly when Roberto Carlos sought medical attention for what initially appeared to be a minor blood clot in his leg. Physicians subsequently ordered a comprehensive full-body MRI scan, which revealed underlying cardiac issues requiring immediate intervention. Medical teams performed a catheterization procedure that, while initially projected to conclude within 40 minutes, extended to nearly three hours due to unforeseen complications.
Despite the extended surgical duration, the procedure achieved complete success according to reports from Spanish sports publication Diario AS. The renowned athlete remains under close medical supervision and is expected to remain hospitalized for an additional 48-hour observation period to monitor his recovery progress.
Roberto Carlos, widely celebrated as one of football’s most offensive-minded left backs in history, earned 125 international caps for Brazil and spent eleven illustrious seasons with Real Madrid. His legendary career includes participation in three World Cup tournaments, culminating in Brazil’s 2002 championship victory. He additionally secured two Copa América titles (1997, 1999) and claimed three UEFA Champions League trophies during his tenure with Madrid.
The Brazilian star remains particularly famous for his extraordinary 1997 free kick against France—a seemingly physically impossible strike that curved dramatically to find the net after appearing initially off target. This remarkable demonstration of skill became subject to scientific analysis and is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular goals in football history.
Current medical reports indicate the football legend is out of immediate danger and has communicated reassuring messages to concerned supporters, stating simply: ‘I’m fine now.’