They are one of the big guns of their respective sports. Both are known for their dedication, professionalism and of course, their game. But Wednesday was a mixed bag for the world when it comes to these two hugely talented, widely acclaimed sportsmen. I am talking about Matthew Hayden and Christiano Ronaldo.Matthew Hayden does not require any introduction. The hard-hitting opener of Australia who has always proved to be a bone in the neck for the Indian bowlers has some the most amazing records to his name. He was a regular opener for Australia and formed opening partnerships with Justin Langer in Tests and with Adam Gilchrist in ODIs. He also has the record of most runs in an innings both in Tests (380) and ODIs (181) for Australia. Hayden used to love Indian bowling and has played some of the best innings of his career against India.
But since from last two series, away series against India and home series against South Africa, he was not even near to his form. This made the Australian selectors to drop him from the upcoming series against South Africa and forced him to think about his retirement. Although he was planning to make himself available for the Ashes later this year, he decided to call it a day.
The game of cricket will miss Matthew Hayden and his style of sport dearly and finding his replacement will not be an easy task for the Australian selectors. Bye Bye HAYDEN....
The other star I am talking about is Christiano Ronaldo. This hugely gifted footballer from Portugal has been awarded the FIFA Player of the Year Award. He received this award from the legendary Brazilian Pele.
Ronaldo came first in a poll of 155 players. Argentinean midfielder Messi was second and Kaka and Torres were beaten by quite a distance.
The Manchester United winger attributed his success to his family, friends and colleagues. He also made a special mention about his current manager and Manchester United’s old boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
These two stars are legends in their respective sports. But on Tuesday, one shone more brightly and other faded. But that does not mean he has lost. This world will remember him for a long, long time.
