Kaká

Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite (born April 22, 1982), commonly known as Kaká or Ricardo Kaká, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. One of the most gifted players of his generation, Kaká was known for his explosive pace, elegant dribbling, precise passing, and clinical finishing. He is one of only eight players in history to have won the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, and the Ballon d’Or.

Basic Information

Why He Matters

Kaká represented the last great era of the classic number 10 playmaker before football became increasingly tactically rigid. At his peak with AC Milan (2003-2009), he was arguably the world’s best player, winning the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 2007.

His playing style - combining Brazilian flair with European tactical discipline - made him beloved globally. He was the first sportsperson to reach 10 million Twitter followers and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2008 and 2009.

Signature Achievements

• Ballon d’Or (2007) - Europe’s best player
• FIFA World Player of the Year (2007)
• FIFA World Cup Winner (2002) - With Brazil
• UEFA Champions League Winner (2007) - AC Milan
• Serie A Champion (2004) - AC Milan
• La Liga Champion (2012) - Real Madrid
• FIFA Confederations Cup Winner (2005, 2009)

Clubs

International Career

• Brazil National Team: 2002-2016
• Caps: 92 appearances
• Goals: 29 goals
• Major Tournaments: 2002 World Cup (winner), 2006 World Cup, 2010 World Cup, 2005/2009 Confederations Cup (winner)

Legacy

Kaká’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He was the first athlete to reach 10 million Twitter followers, became the youngest ambassador for the UN World Food Programme in 2004, and demonstrated that a top footballer could combine elite performance with humility, faith, and social responsibility. His 2007 Ballon d’Or remains the last won by a player not named Messi or Ronaldo until Luka Modrić in 2018.

Early Life and Background

Birth and Family Origins

Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite was born on April 22, 1982, in Gama, a city in the Federal District of Brazil’s Central-West Region. The youngest of three siblings, he grew up in a middle-class family that valued education alongside sporting pursuits.

Parents

• Simone dos Santos - Mother, an elementary school teacher
• Bosco Izecson Pereira Leite - Father, a civil engineer

The family provided a stable, financially secure environment that allowed young Ricardo to focus on both his studies and his passion for football.

The Origin of “Kaká”

The nickname “Kaká” originated in childhood: - His younger brother Digão (Rodrigo) couldn’t pronounce “Ricardo” - Attempted “Caca” but couldn’t say the “R” - Evolved into “Kaká” - The name has no specific Portuguese translation - His brother Digão and cousin Eduardo Delani also became professional footballers

Childhood and Football Beginnings

Early Years in Brasília Region

Growing up in the Federal District: - Exposure to football from earliest memory - Played in streets and local pitches - Showed natural talent from young age - Balanced football with schoolwork

The Move to São Paulo

At age seven, Kaká’s family relocated to São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil: - Father’s work required the move - São Paulo offered greater football opportunities - Attended school with football program - Local youth club “Alphaville” spotted his talent

São Paulo FC Discovery

Kaká’s talent was discovered through local tournament: - Alphaville youth team reached tournament final - São Paulo FC scouts present - Offered place in prestigious youth academy at age eight - Began formal football training

The Spinal Fracture (2000)

Career-Threatening Injury

At age 18, while already emerging as a São Paulo prospect, Kaká suffered a devastating injury: - Swimming pool accident caused spinal fracture - Doctors initially feared career-ending damage - Prolonged recovery and rehabilitation - Test of faith and determination

Recovery and Spiritual Transformation

The injury period became transformative: - Full recovery achieved - against medical odds - Attribution to God - Deepened Christian faith - Tithing commitment - Began giving 10% of income to church - Became evangelical Christian - Faith central to life

This experience shaped his character - the humility, gratitude, and faith that would define his public persona throughout his career.

Education and Personal Development

Schooling in São Paulo

Despite football academy commitments, Kaká maintained education: - Attended school while training - Developed discipline balancing studies and sport - Learned English in preparation for potential Europe move - Prepared for life beyond football

Character Formation

Early experiences shaped his personality: - Family values - Respect, education, faith - Near-death experience - Perspective on life - São Paulo FC structure - Professional discipline - Middle-class upbringing - Grounded personality

Youth Career at São Paulo

Academy Development (1994-2001)

Seven years in São Paulo’s youth system: - Technical development - Dribbling, passing, finishing - Tactical education - Positioning, movement, decision-making - Physical growth - Reached 1.86m height - Mental preparation - Handling pressure

Breakthrough to First Team (2001)

Kaká made his professional debut for São Paulo at age 18: - Debut: 2001 season - Position: Attacking midfielder - Performances: Immediate impact with goals and assists - Recognition: Named to Bola de Prata (Silver Ball) - best Brazilian league player

Playing Style Development

Technical Foundation

At São Paulo, Kaká developed: - Explosive acceleration - Burst past defenders - Elegant dribbling - Close control at speed - Precise passing - Vision and execution - Clinical finishing - Goal-scoring from midfield

Comparison to Brazilian Legends

Early comparisons to: - Zico - Creative playmaking - Rivaldo - Elegance and technique - But with unique blend of European-style directness

European Interest

Scouting Attention

By 2003, European clubs monitoring Kaká: - AC Milan - Intensive scouting - Real Madrid - Interest expressed - Other European giants - Monitoring situation

The Transfer

AC Milan secured signature (2003): - Fee: €8.5 million - Age: 21 - Timing: After impressive Copa Libertadores performances - Significance: São Paulo’s faith in youth development rewarded

Pre-Europe Preparation

Final São Paulo Season (2003)

Kaká’s departure season: - Torneio Rio-São Paulo - Helped win title - Copa Libertadores - Strong performances - Legacy - 23 goals in 59 appearances - Fan farewell - Adored by São Paulo supporters

Personal Readiness

Before moving to Italy: - English proficiency - Prepared for international environment - Cultural awareness - Understanding of European football - Mental preparation - Faith-based approach to challenges - Family support - Parents’ blessing and encouragement

Foundation for Stardom

Attributes Developed

By age 21, Kaká possessed: - Complete technical ability - All facets of attacking midfield play - Physical readiness - Height, strength, and pace - Mental strength - Overcoming career-threatening injury - Character foundation - Humility despite talent - Faith grounding - Perspective beyond football

Unique Position

Kaká entered European football with rare combination: - Brazilian technical flair - European tactical discipline - Professional maturity - Physical completeness - Mental resilience

These attributes, developed through his São Paulo youth career and tested by his spinal injury, positioned him perfectly for the extraordinary success that would follow at AC Milan and beyond.

Career

São Paulo (2001-2003)

Professional Debut

Kaká made his professional debut for São Paulo FC in 2001 at age 18: - First season - 27 appearances, 12 goals - Position: Attacking midfielder - Impact: Immediate contributor with goals and assists - Style: Dynamic, elegant, goal-scoring threat

Breakthrough Season (2002)

The 2002 season established Kaká as a rising star: - Copa Libertadores - Impressive continental performances - Campeonato Brasileiro - Named to Bola de Prata (Silver Ball) - Torneio Rio-São Paulo - Helped win championship - Recognition: Best Brazilian league player

Final Season and Transfer (2003)

The 2003 season brought: - Continued excellence - 10 goals in 19 appearances - European attention - AC Milan scouts impressed - Transfer agreed - €8.5 million to AC Milan - São Paulo legacy - 23 goals in 59 total appearances

AC Milan: Rise to Superstardom (2003-2009)

Immediate Impact (2003-2004)

Kaká hit the ground running in Italy: - Debut season - 30 appearances, 10 goals - Serie A champion - Won Scudetto in first season - Supercoppa Italiana - Added to trophy cabinet - Rui Costa competition - Eventually displaced Portuguese legend

Champions League Glory (2004-2005)

2004-05 Champions League - Top assist provider - Led tournament in assists - UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year - Final disappointment - Lost to Liverpool (Istanbul final) - Individual recognition - Established as elite European player

The Peak Years (2005-2007)

2006-07 Season: The Ballon d’Or Year

This season represented Kaká’s pinnacle:

Champions League Campaign - 14 goals - Tournament top scorer - Crucial performances - Dominated knockout rounds - Semi-final - Dismantled Manchester United - Final - Revenge against Liverpool (2-1 victory)

Individual Awards (2007) - Ballon d’Or - European Footballer of the Year - FIFA World Player of the Year - UEFA Club Footballer of the Year - FIFPro World XI

Serie A - Continued domestic excellence - 8 goals in 31 appearances - Creative force for Milan

Consistent Excellence (2007-2009)

Club World Cup (2007) - Milan won FIFA Club World Cup - Kaká instrumental in victory - Completed trophy collection at club level

Continued Production - 2007-08: 15 goals in all competitions - 2008-09: 16 goals in all competitions - Maintained elite status - Transfer rumors to Real Madrid intensified

AC Milan Statistics

Real Madrid: The Galáctico Era (2009-2013)

Record Transfer (2009)

Kaká moved to Real Madrid for €67 million: - Second-highest transfer fee at that time (after Zidane) - Joined with Cristiano Ronaldo - New Galáctico era - Expectations: Continued Ballon d’Or form - Reality: Injuries and fitness issues

Injury-Plagued Spell

Kaká’s Madrid career was defined by physical setbacks:

2009-10 Season - 25 league appearances, 8 goals - Not the dominant force expected - Ronaldo emerged as primary star

2010-11 Season - Injury struggles limited appearances - 20 league appearances, 7 goals - Surgery on knee and groin - Lost pace that defined his game

2011-12 Season - Limited to 27 league appearances - 5 league goals - La Liga winner (as squad player) - Reduced role under Mourinho

2012-13 Season - Only 19 league appearances - 3 league goals - Clearly not in plans - Transfer speculation intensified

Madrid Summary

• Total appearances: 120 (85 La Liga)
• Total goals: 29 (23 La Liga)
• Major trophies: 1 La Liga (2012), 1 Copa del Rey (2011)
• Reality: Disappointment relative to transfer fee and expectations

Return to AC Milan (2013-2014)

Homecoming

Kaká returned to Milan on loan (2013), then permanent (2014): - Emotional return - Fan favorite welcomed back - Free transfer - After Madrid contract terminated - New chapter - Attempted career revival

2013-14 Season

• 30 league appearances
• 7 league goals
• Professional performance - But not vintage Kaká
• Departure - Contract not renewed

Orlando City and Career Twilight (2014-2017)

Orlando City SC (2014-2017)

Kaká joined MLS expansion team Orlando City SC:

2014 (Loan to São Paulo first) - Loan spell at boyhood club São Paulo (19 apps, 2 goals) - Joined Orlando for inaugural MLS season

2015-2017 in MLS - Designated Player - Highest paid player in MLS - Captain - Led expansion franchise - Production: 24 goals in 75 MLS appearances - All-Star - MLS All-Star selections - Mentor role - Guided young players

Final Season and Retirement

2017: Final professional season - Orlando City captain - Announced retirement - October 2017 - Farewell match - December 2017 at Orlando - Emotional goodbye - Career officially ended

International Career with Brazil

World Cup 2002 (Winner)

Kaká’s first World Cup at age 20: - Limited role - Youngest squad member - One appearance - Cameo vs. Costa Rica - World Champion - Brazil’s fifth title - Learning experience - Observed Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho

World Cup 2006

Increased role in Germany: - Started all matches - 1 goal - vs. Croatia - Quarter-final exit - Lost to France - Disappointment - Brazil favored but underperformed

Confederations Cup Success

2005 Champion - Key player in Germany - Silver Ball (second-best player)

2009 Champion - Golden Ball winner (tournament MVP) - Peak international performance - South Africa success

World Cup 2010

Injury-affected tournament in South Africa: - Recovered from knee surgery - Rushed back - Below peak fitness - Quarter-final exit - Lost to Netherlands - Final World Cup

Later International Career

2014-2016 - Sporadic call-ups - Not part of 2014 World Cup squad - Final cap: 2016 - 92 total appearances, 29 goals

Career Summary Statistics

Club Career

International Career

Major Honours

Kaká’s career combined sublime peak performances with injury-affected decline. The 2006-2007 season stands as one of the greatest individual campaigns by an attacking midfielder in football history, while his Madrid years demonstrated how injuries can derail even the most gifted careers. His graceful retirement in MLS and lasting legacy as a role model complete the picture of one of football’s most respected figures.

Achievements and Records

Major Accomplishments

Kaká’s list of achievements represents some of the most impressive accomplishments in their field. These milestones reflect years of dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Awards and Recognition

The honors and awards bestowed upon Kaká reflect the high regard in which they are held by peers, critics, and fans alike. These recognitions span multiple organizations and categories.

Records and Statistics

Kaká’s statistical achievements tell a compelling story of sustained excellence and breakthrough performances that have set new standards in their discipline.

Technique and Style

Playing Style Overview

Kaká was the epitome of the modern attacking midfielder - combining Brazilian flair with European tactical discipline. His style was defined by explosive acceleration, elegant ball control, and devastating finishing.

Technical Attributes

Dribbling

Characteristics - Close control at high speed - Rare ability to maintain possession while sprinting - Economical touches - Efficient, purposeful dribbling - Ball-to-foot proximity - Tight control in tight spaces - Change of pace - Sudden acceleration to beat defenders

Signature Moves - Direct runs through midfield - Beating defenders with pure speed - Cutting inside from right side - Driving at back lines

Passing

Vision and Range - Long-range passing - Accurate diagonal balls - Through balls - Perfect weight for runners - Combination play - One-twos with strikers - Crossing - Deliveries from wide areas

Decision Making - Knew when to pass and when to shoot - Timing of runs and passes - Reading defensive lines

Shooting

Finishing Ability - Powerful long-range shots - Striking from distance - Composed finishing - Calm in one-on-one situations - Both feet - Capable with left and right - Placement over power - Intelligent shot selection

Goal Scoring Record - 149 club career goals from midfield - 29 international goals - Regular double-digit seasons

Physical Attributes

Pace and Acceleration

Explosive Speed - 1.86m tall with long stride - Acceleration was elite - Could go from standstill to full speed instantly - Blistering pace over 30 meters

Comparison - Faster than most midfielders - Combined speed with technique - Rarely lost foot races

Physicality

Strengths - Strong frame (1.86m, 78kg) - Held off challenges while running - Balance at speed - Durability (early career)

Tactical Intelligence

Positioning

Preferred Position - Attacking midfielder (number 10) - Behind main striker - Freedom to roam - Starting from deep positions

Movement Patterns - Dropping deep to receive - Driving through midfield - Making runs in behind defense - Finding space between lines

Defensive Contribution

Work Rate - Pressed opponents - Tracked back when needed - Team defensive discipline - Better than typical Brazilian attackers

The Kaká Run

Signature Play

Kaká’s trademark was the driving run from midfield: 1. Receive ball in own half or midfield 2. Turn and accelerate directly at goal 3. Beat defenders with pace and control 4. Finish or create chance

Examples

Famous Runs - 2005 vs. Fenerbahçe (Champions League) - 2007 vs. Manchester United (Champions League semi-final) - Multiple similar goals throughout career

Evolution Over Time

Early Career (2001-2004)

• Raw speed and energy
• Learning tactical discipline at Milan
• Developing finishing
• Building physical strength

Peak Years (2005-2007)

• Perfect combination of all attributes
• Refined decision making
• Peak physical condition
• Complete attacking midfielder

Post-Injury (2009-2017)

• Lost explosive pace
• Adapted to reduced mobility
• Still technical and intelligent
• More of a playmaker than runner

Comparison to Contemporaries

vs. Ronaldinho

vs. Messi/Ronaldo

Kaká preceded their dominance: - Last Ballon d’Or winner before their era - Similar goal contribution from attacking positions - Different style - more classic playmaker

Coaching and Expert Analysis

Expert Praise

Carlo Ancelotti (AC Milan Manager) “The best player I have ever coached. His speed with the ball was something I’ve never seen before or since.”

Paolo Maldini (AC Milan Legend) “Kaká had everything - speed, technique, intelligence, and character.”

Tactical Analysis

Modern analysts note: - Pioneered direct running from midfield - Combined Brazilian and European styles - Created template for modern number 10 - Influenced subsequent attacking midfielders

Conclusion

Kaká’s technique and style represented: - Speed and elegance combined - Rare blend - Directness - Always looking to attack - Efficiency - Maximized output - Professionalism - Tactical discipline - Grace - Smooth, elegant movement

His style influenced a generation of attacking midfielders and remains the standard for combining Brazilian creativity with European tactical structure. The decline of his physical attributes through injury makes his peak performances even more treasured - a reminder of how special he was at his best.

Personal Life

Faith and Spirituality

Evangelical Christian Faith

Kaká’s Christian faith is central to his identity: - Born-again Christian - Devout evangelical - Career dedication - Credits God for recovery from spinal injury - Public expression - Open about faith - Tithing practice - Gives 10% of income to church

Faith Impact - “I belong to Jesus” - Famous celebration - Goal celebrations pointing to sky - Refused to have tattoos (against beliefs) - Marriage commitment influenced by faith

Marriages

Caroline Celico (2005-2015)

Courtship and Marriage - Met in 2002 - Married in 2005 (age 23) - High-profile Christian wedding - Two children together

Children - Luca Celico Leite (born 2008) - Isabella Celico Leite (born 2011)

Divorce (2015) - Announced separation after 9 years - Amicable split - Joint custody of children - Cited growing apart

Carol Dias (2019-Present)

Second Marriage - Married Brazilian model Carol Dias in 2019 - Wedding in Itajaí, Brazil - Second chance at marriage - Both share Christian faith

Child - Esther (born 2020) - Kaká’s third child

Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work

UN World Food Programme

Youngest Ambassador (2004) - Appointed at age 22 - Anti-hunger advocacy - Field visits to developing countries - Fundraising and awareness

Other Causes

Foundation Work - Kaká Institute - Educational programs - Various Brazilian charities - Children’s hospitals - Christian organizations

Time 100 Recognition

Named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people: - 2008 and 2009 - Recognition for sporting and humanitarian impact - Global influence acknowledged

Post-Retirement Life

Football Involvement

After retiring in 2017: - Commentary work - Television analysis - Ambassador roles - AC Milan, Real Madrid - Youth development - Mentoring young players - Occasional exhibition matches

Social Media Presence

Twitter Pioneer - First athlete to reach 10 million followers - Active on Instagram and other platforms - Shares faith, family, football content - Global influence maintained

Business Ventures

Limited business activities: - Endorsements - Continued brand partnerships - Investments - Conservative approach - Media work - Commentary contracts - Real estate - Properties in Brazil and US

Personal Characteristics

Personality

Known for: - Humility - Despite success - Professionalism - Always prepared - Kindness - Friendly to fans and media - Discipline - Fitness and lifestyle

Lifestyle

Clean Living - No alcohol - No tattoos (faith-based) - Focus on family - Regular church attendance

Privacy

Despite fame, maintained: - Private family life - Limited scandal - Positive public image - Respectful relationships

Hobbies and Interests

Beyond Football

• Music - Plays guitar
• Reading - Especially religious texts
• Travel - With family
• Golf - Post-retirement hobby

Brazilian Culture

Maintains connection to: - Brazilian music and culture - Portuguese language - Family in Brazil - Brazilian causes

Residences

Homes

• Brazil - Primary residence (São Paulo area)
• United States - Orlando area (from playing days)
• Italy - Connections to Milan
• Spain - Madrid connections

Legacy in Personal Terms

Role Model Status

Kaká is widely viewed as: - Model professional - Clean career - Faith exemplar - Living beliefs publicly - Family man - Dedicated to children - Humanitarian - Using platform for good

Contrast to Peers

Compared to other football stars: - Less controversy - Minimal scandal - More private - Despite social media presence - More grounded - Faith and family focus - Better role model - Widely respected

Conclusion

Kaká’s personal life reflects the values that defined his career: - Faith - Central to identity and decisions - Family - Prioritized throughout career - Humility - Remained grounded despite fame - Service - Using success to help others

His post-retirement life continues these themes - focusing on family, faith, and philanthropy rather than pursuing maximum commercial gain or celebrity status. This consistency between his public and private persona has made him one of football’s most respected figures, transcending club loyalties and national boundaries.

Legacy

The Last Classic Number 10

End of an Era

Kaká represents the final great exponent of the classical attacking midfielder role before football became increasingly tactically rigid and physically demanding:

The Traditional Playmaker - Freedom to roam and create - Artistic approach to the game - Technical excellence prioritized - Less defensive responsibility

Tactical Evolution - Modern football demands more pressing - Physical requirements increased - Positional discipline emphasized - Classic number 10 role diminished

Bridge Between Generations

Kaká connected: - Previous era - Zidane, Rivaldo, Figo - Next generation - Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar - Ballon d’Or - Last winner before Messi-Ronaldo dominance - Style - Brazilian flair with European efficiency

Individual Legacy

The 2007 Standard

Kaká’s 2006-2007 season remains a benchmark: - Champions League heroics - Single-handedly carried Milan - Peak performance - Speed, technique, finishing - Big moments - Delivered when it mattered most - Awards sweep - Ballon d’Or, FIFA World Player, UEFA honors

Influence on Modern Players

Kaká’s style influenced: - Direct running from midfield - Now common - Speed with technique - Expected combination - Attacking midfielder role - Evolved definition - Professional approach - Preparation and discipline

Statistical Legacy

Unique Achievements

Kaká is one of only eight players to win: - FIFA World Cup - UEFA Champions League - Ballon d’Or

Elite Company - Bobby Charlton - Franz Beckenbauer - Gerd Müller - Zinedine Zidane - Rivaldo - Ronaldinho - Lionel Messi - Kaká

Club Legacy

AC Milan - Hall of Fame inductee - Iconic number 22 - Champions League legend - Fan favorite forever

Real Madrid - Disappointing spell but part of Galáctico era - La Liga winner - Lessons in injury management

Orlando City - First franchise star - MLS Designated Player trailblazer - Mentor to young players

Cultural Legacy

Social Media Pioneer

First Athlete to 10 Million Twitter Followers - Demonstrated athlete social media potential - Pioneered direct fan connection - Influencer before “influencer” existed - Set standard for athlete digital presence

Global Brand

Kaká’s marketability: - Adidas face - Major campaigns - Clean image - Family-friendly appeal - Global appeal - Beyond Brazil and Italy - Christian market - Faith-based following

Role Model Status

Unblemished Reputation - No major scandals - Professional throughout - Faith exemplar - Family man

Contrast to Era - Less controversy than contemporaries - More grounded than typical superstar - Positive influence on young fans - Respected across rivalries

Philanthropic Legacy

Humanitarian Impact

UN World Food Programme - Youngest ambassador at appointment - Anti-hunger advocacy - Field work in developing countries - Ongoing commitment

Brazilian Social Impact

• Kaká Institute educational programs
• Children’s hospital support
• Brazilian youth inspiration
• National pride figure

The “What If” Legacy

Injury Impact

Kaká’s career trajectory changed by injuries: - Peak at 25 - Should have had 5+ more elite years - Real Madrid spell - Lost pace that defined his game - 2010 World Cup - Rushed back, below peak - Decline - Faster than should have been

Potential Unfulfilled

Without injuries, potentially: - Multiple Ballon d’Or wins - Greater longevity at elite level - More World Cup impact - Higher all-time ranking

Comparative Legacy

Among Brazilian Greats

Kaká’s Place: Peak excellence, professional excellence, shortened by injuries

Among All-Time Greats

Kaká’s ranking varies by criteria: - Peak level - Top 20-30 all-time - Career longevity - Lower due to injuries - Influence - Significant for position evolution - Trophies - Excellent collection

Enduring Impact

On Brazilian Football

• Success abroad paved way for others
• Professionalism model
• Faith integration example
• Clean reputation standard

On AC Milan

• Last truly global superstar
• Champions League icon
• Standard for attacking midfielders
• Fan favorite across generations

On Football Culture

• Role model for behavior
• Christian athlete example
• Professional preparation
• Elegant style appreciation

Conclusion

Kaká’s legacy is multifaceted:

1. Last Classical Playmaker - End of traditional number 10 era
2. Ballon d’Or Excellence - 2007 as standard for midfielders
3. Professional Model - How to conduct career with class
4. Social Media Pioneer - Athlete digital presence trailblazer
5. Humanitarian - Using platform for positive impact
6. Role Model - Faith, family, and football balance
7. What If Story - Injuries preventing even greater heights

His name will always evoke memories of that explosive 2007 season - the perfect fusion of Brazilian creativity and European efficiency, of speed and grace, of individual brilliance within team success.

While Messi and Ronaldo dominated the following decade, Kaká’s 2007 Ballon d’Or stands as a reminder of what the classical attacking midfielder could achieve - and what the game lost as that role evolved into something different.

Kaká’s legacy is secure: one of the greatest of his generation, the last of his particular kind, and an example of how to be a global superstar while maintaining character, faith, and humanity.