Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez is known for his football career across Europe and the U.S., having played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and LA Galaxy.
The Mexican striker was teammates with Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2014-15 season at Real Madrid. Though it was a short period, it had a significant impact on him.
During that time, Hernandez noticed the qualities and mindset that contributed to Ronaldo’s success. Reflecting on those experiences, the lessons still resonate today.
Chicharito Hernandez names Cristiano Ronaldo as his best influence
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Hernandez recently responded to a fan question on his Instagram, stating clearly who had the biggest impact on him.
“The best player you learned from? Wow. Well, Cristiano Ronaldo. What I learned from him was his perseverance, discipline, and professionalism,” said the 37-year-old.
His remarks highlight Ronaldo’s well-known reputation for a strong work ethic, which has helped him maintain high performance levels throughout his career.
At 41, Ronaldo continues to show impressive results, a sign of the consistency he has achieved through years of hard work and focus.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s discipline could drive final World Cup push
Ronaldo’s long career puts him in a unique position ahead of the next World Cup.
If chosen, he would compete at 41, a possibility supported by the fitness standards he has kept up over the years.
This same discipline fuels his ambition for football’s top prize, which has so far eluded him.
If he succeeds, Ronaldo could eclipse Dino Zoff, who won the World Cup in 1982, becoming the oldest champion in the tournament’s history.