Football is a tough game which requires both mental and physical strength which is why most players experience a peak that usually lasts 5-6 years. In comparison to all the other sports, footballers retire an an early age relatively but there are always exceptions in this when it comes to longevity. Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo stands as an epitome of fitness and mental resilience which has also left the fans to wonder about the secret behind his long-term success.
Ronaldo himself pointed out that the one key factor that is very crucial is “sleep.” Passive period of rest contributes to his athletic longevity. This insight was highlighted in a conversation with Will Ahmed, the founder of WHOOP, in the company’s podcast. He explained that it’s not about the total hours of sleep, but rather about maintaining a consistent routine going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
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“Sleep is the most important tool that I have. To be consistent with the time that I go to bed and that I wake up. I mean, like example, I go to bed around 11-12 and I wake up around 8:30. It is my routine. It is the most important thing that we have probably in terms of healthspan,” said Ronaldo
@Cristiano most powerful tool? Strategic sleep. Lock in your bedtime, dial in your mornings, and feel the difference 💪 pic.twitter.com/PN704l2V2B
— WHOOP (@WHOOP) October 24, 2025
For World top athletes like Ronaldo, the timing of sleep is very crucial and having a stabilized cycle not only helps in recovery but also plays a significant role in their performance on-field. Ronaldo’s disciplined approach to sleep is one of the key factors that help him stay at the top of his game, defying the typical trajectory of a footballer’s career.
