In 2011, pro sprinter Rodriguez witnessed Cristiano Ronaldo's speed firsthand during a 25-meter sprint. Ronaldo clocked 3.61 seconds against Rodriguez's 3.31 seconds. From this brief clash, Rodriguez estimated Ronaldo's potential 100m time, which is surprisingly competitive for a non-sprinter.
In an interview with ‘At Home with Athletes,’ Rodriguez praised Ronaldo's lateral quickness as a testament to his rigorous training. He noted that while he won the race by 0.3 seconds, this gap implies that Ronaldo could likely complete a full 100m sprint in roughly 11.6 seconds.
Despite being 35, Ronaldo continues to exhibit incredible speed on the pitch for his club and country.
Even the greatest sprinter in history now believes that Ronaldo holds the speed advantage.
During a recent interview with the Spanish publication Marca, Usain Bolt conceded that in a race today, Ronaldo would likely beat him. This is a surprising take considering that in 2009, Bolt stunned the world at the IAAF Championships by setting a world record of 9.58 seconds in the 100m.
Bolt explained that the main reason for this shift is the difference in their current routines: Ronaldo trains professionally every day, whereas Bolt retired from competitive athletics back in 2017.
In a previous discussion with the New York Times, Bolt mentioned that he only hits the gym now to maintain general fitness. When asked if he missed the intensity of professional training, he admitted that he didn't miss it at all.
Consequently, Bolt is certain that if the two were to compete right now, he would come in second.
Bolt acknowledged that Ronaldo's daily commitment to fitness makes him a 'super athlete' who is faster than him currently. He concluded that Ronaldo's unwavering focus and hard work are exactly what make him one of the most legendary figures in football history.