Soccer icon Roberto Carlos is recovering after undergoing a preventive heart procedure, a situation the Brazilian great addressed directly this week to calm concern among fans around the world.
According to ESPN, the former Real Madrid and Brazil star confirmed that he had surgery at a hospital in São Paulo after doctors identified an underlying heart issue during medical testing. He made it clear, however, that reports suggesting he suffered a heart attack were incorrect.
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“I would like to clarify recent information that has been circling,” Roberto Carlos said in a statement shared on social media. “I recently underwent a preventative medical procedure, planned in advance with my medical team. The procedure was successful, and I am well.”
The initial reason for Roberto Carlos’ hospital visit was unrelated to his heart. The 52-year-old had been undergoing routine exams after doctors detected a thrombus in one of his legs. Further testing, including an MRI, revealed that a significant portion of his heart was not functioning as it should, prompting doctors to recommend immediate intervention.
What was expected to be a relatively short procedure ultimately lasted close to three hours due to complications during the placement of a catheter intended to correct the problem. Despite the extended surgery, Roberto Carlos emphasized that the outcome was positive and that he is already focused on his recovery.
“I did not suffer a heart attack,” he said. “I am recovering well, and looking forward to returning to full fitness and resuming my professional and personal commitments soon.”
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Roberto Carlos later shared a photo alongside the medical team who treated him, thanking them for their care as he prepared to continue his recovery outside the hospital. “I sincerely thank everyone for the messages of support, care, and concern,” he added. “There is no cause for concern.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest full-backs in soccer history, Roberto Carlos enjoyed a storied career that included winning the 2002 World Cup with Brazil. At club level, he became a global star during his time at Real Madrid from 1996 to 2007, collecting four LaLiga titles and three UEFA Champions League trophies.
He also earned individual recognition, finishing as runner-up to the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 1997 and to the Ballon d’Or in 2002.