Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos was rushed to a Sao Paulo hospital for emergency heart surgery following a serious health scare, it has been confirmed.
Legend Faces Serious Health Complication
The former Real Madrid and Brazil left-back, famed for his thunderous free-kicks, was admitted after developing a heart problem alongside a small blood clot in one of his legs. Medical teams acted swiftly, performing a critical catheter insertion procedure to address the issue.
While the standard operation typically lasts around 40 minutes, Roberto Carlos's surgery took approximately three hours due to unforeseen complications during the process. The extended timeframe caused significant concern for his family and fans worldwide.
Successful Surgery and Recovery Outlook
According to reports from the Spanish outlet AS, the complex operation was ultimately a success. Representatives for the 52-year-old have confirmed that the iconic defender is now "out of danger" and is recovering.
A statement from his team clarified his current condition, stating he is "fine now". However, as a precaution, Carlos will remain under close medical observation in hospital for a further two days to monitor his recovery.
A Storied Career on the Pitch
Roberto Carlos is one of football's most celebrated figures, having earned 125 caps for the Brazilian national team. He was an integral part of the squad that lifted the FIFA World Cup in 2002, forming part of a formidable team alongside stars like Ronaldo and Rivaldo.
At club level, he achieved legendary status during a glittering 11-year spell with Real Madrid, where he won multiple Champions League and La Liga titles. His powerful playing style and charismatic personality have made him a beloved global sports icon, which explains the outpouring of support following news of his hospitalisation.
The football world now waits for further positive updates on the full recovery of one of its most unforgettable players.