is a former Brazilian footballer, initially known on the football pitch as Ronaldo and then as Ronaldão (big Ronaldo) to differentiate him from his younger compatriot and teammate, also dubbed Ronaldo, who was nicknamed Ronaldinho (little Ronaldo) before this was adopted by Ronaldinho Gaúcho.
A former defender, Ronaldão played 14 matches in the Seleção (Brazil national football team) between 1991 and 1995, scoring one goal, and winning the 1994 FIFA World Cup, although he did not play in any matches in the tournament. He was called up to the World Cup on its opening day, traveling from Japan to the United States as a substitute for injured Ricardo Gomes. He was also a member of the team that finished in second place in the 1995 Copa América.
He was also successful at club level, winning numerous domestic, continental, and international trophies, including two consecutive Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup titles with São Paulo in 1992 and 1993.