The story is about Ricardo "Kaká" dos Santos, a Brazilian soccer player who overcame incredible obstacles to become one of the best players in the world. Born into an upper-middle-class family, Kaká was diagnosed with a bone delay of two years, making his bones weaker than those of his peers. Despite this, he was determined to play soccer and, with the help of a doctor, began a rigorous diet and exercise regimen to strengthen his body.
Kaká's career was marked by numerous setbacks, including a near-fatal accident at the age of 18 that left him with a fractured vertebra and a long recovery process. However, he persevered and achieved his goals, including winning the 2002 World Cup, the Champions League, and the Ballon d'Or.
Throughout his career, Kaká remained committed to his faith and resisted the temptations of fame and fortune. He is now retired and is remembered as an inspiration to many for his determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Kaká, whose real name is Ricardo dos Santos, was born on April 22, 1982.
2. He grew up in an upper-middle class family in Brazil.
3. His father was a civil engineer, and his mother was a primary school teacher.
4. Kaká was born with a weak bone structure and was diagnosed with a bone delay of two years.
5. He was prohibited from playing soccer as a child due to his fragile bones.
6. A doctor suggested that he start a rigorous diet and exercise routine to strengthen his bones and muscles.
7. Kaká began going to the gym at the age of 12 to lift light weights under the supervision of a trainer.
8. He signed a contract with the Sao Paulo youth team at the age of 15.
9. Kaká made his professional debut and scored 12 goals in 27 games.
10. In 2000, he was involved in an accident at a water park, which left him with a fractured fourth vertebra.
11. Doctors warned that his recovery was unlikely, and he may be paralyzed.
12. Kaká recovered miraculously and was back on the soccer field two months after the accident.
13. He set four goals for himself, which he achieved: resigning a professional contract, playing for the Brazilian national team, playing for a top team in Europe, and winning a World Cup.
14. Kaká won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil and was awarded the Ballon d'Or in 2007.
15. He played for AC Milan and Real Madrid, winning several titles, including the Champions League and European Super Cup.
16. Kaká retired from soccer in 2017, playing his last game for Orlando City in the American league.
17. He credited his faith in God for his recovery and success in soccer.