Happy 2026! The new year marks a big one for some of soccer’s biggest stars—including Cristiano Ronaldo—with the FIFA World Cup coming to North America.
While fans are excited to see the 40-year-old Ronaldo potentially play on U.S. soil in his final World Cup, they may not realize his name has a distinctly American influence. In this episode of I Never Knew That, editor Tyler explores why the greatest goal scorer of all time partially takes his identity from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan.
Read more about Ronaldo—including a breakdown of his massive net worth—at Biography.com. Be sure to check out our full INKT catalog, including recent episodes with Priscilla Presley and Charles Dickens.
If you liked the video, let us know at editor@biography.com.
Tyler Piccotti joined the Biography.com staff as an Associate News Editor and is now the News and Culture Editor. He previously worked as a reporter and copy editor for a daily newspaper recognized by the Associated Press Sports Editors. In his current role, he shares the true stories behind your favorite movies and TV shows and profiles rising musicians, actors, and athletes. When he's not working, you can find him at the nearest amusement park or movie theater and cheering on his favorite teams.
