Frank Lampard recently explained why he kept his distance from Cristiano Ronaldo while they were both on vacation, despite staying at the same hotel.
This revelation came after Portugal, under the management of Roberto Martinez, managed a 2-1 comeback victory against the Czech Republic in Group F, with Francisco Conceicao scoring a dramatic 92nd-minute goal. During this match, Ronaldo and his teammates struggled to convert their chances, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner missing several significant opportunities.
Even though Ronaldo’s performance in the opening match of Euro 2024 wasn’t particularly impressive, he still made history by becoming the first player to participate in six European Championships, his debut being in 2004.
Despite being 39 years old and maintaining excellent physical condition, Ronaldo’s presence continues to command attention. Lampard, speaking to the BBC, revealed that he intentionally avoided Ronaldo while on holiday, possibly due to a sense of embarrassment.
Lampard, an England and Chelsea legend, had previously joked about feeling inadequate next to Ronaldo’s “amazing” physique. Reflecting on their encounter, Lampard said, “I ran into him on vacation a few months back.
I was at the same hotel on the beach, and thankfully his sunspot was every day a little down from me.” He elaborated on his efforts to maintain a distance, noting, “I made sure to keep away from him since he was in amazing form.”
This amusing anecdote was underscored by Ronaldo’s recent performance against the Czech Republic, where he missed several crucial chances.
Lampard’s decision to steer clear of Ronaldo wasn’t out of disrespect but rather a humorous acknowledgment of Ronaldo’s extraordinary dedication and fitness level. “Because of what an amazing player he has been, I pulled him over so we could have a picture with my kid.
I immediately put on my t-shirt and we got a great photo,” Lampard recalled, highlighting the admiration and respect he holds for the Portuguese star.
Lampard also shared his observations of Ronaldo’s rigorous training regimen. “I observed that he was accompanying his personal trainer to the gym twice a day.
It only demonstrates his commitment to his work,” Lampard noted. This commitment to maintaining peak physical condition, even while on vacation, is a testament to Ronaldo’s professionalism and dedication to his craft.
Despite their different stages in life and career, Lampard and Ronaldo share a mutual respect, as evidenced by their brief interaction.
Lampard humorously mentioned how he applauded Ronaldo’s dedication from afar, saying, “As he walked back, I gave him a ripple of applause while I was drinking a beer!” This light-hearted gesture encapsulates Lampard’s appreciation for Ronaldo’s relentless pursuit of excellence, even as he himself enjoys a more relaxed approach to his post-playing days.
