The World Cup is finally here, and as we eagerly await Brazil’s opening match against Croatia, one name that stands out is Ronaldinho. You may wonder why so many Brazilian soccer players, like Ronaldinho, are known by just one name. Let’s delve into the fascinating history and cultural conventions that give rise to this unique phenomenon.
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A Brazilian Tradition
In Brazil, it is customary for individuals to be addressed by their first names or nicknames, regardless of the setting. This tradition extends beyond the world of soccer. Even the country’s president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, is widely known as Lula. This preference for informal names stems from Brazil’s historically high illiteracy rate and the use of shortened spoken names as a common practice. It also serves as a marker of intimacy and sometimes a class signifier, as exemplified by Lula’s working-class roots.
A Historical Perspective
Some scholars speculate that the use of single names in Brazil may have its roots in the slave system, which was abolished in the late 19th century. Slaves were often referred to by their first names or with the addition of their country of origin. This practice carried over to the naming conventions of Brazilian society, including the world of soccer.
Evolution in Soccer
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When soccer was introduced to Brazil by the English in the 1800s, players were initially referred to by their surnames. However, as the sport gained popularity, the Brazilian adoration for goal-scorers and the diminished affection for defenders led to the rise of nicknaming. The most famous forwards in Brazilian soccer history, Edson Arantes do Nascimento and Manuel Francisco dos Santos, are better known as Pele and Garrincha respectively. Defenders and goalkeepers typically go by their given names or surnames, with few exceptions.
The Ronaldinho Saga
The emergence of several players named Ronaldo prompted the need for differentiation. One Ronaldo became known as “Ronaldao” or “big Ronaldo.” Another, who was smaller in stature, earned the moniker “Ronaldinho” or “little Ronaldo.” When yet another Ronaldo joined the national squad, the original Ronaldinho became Ronaldo, and the smaller Ronaldo from Rio Grande do Sul became Ronaldinho Gaucho. This fascinating evolution showcases how the Brazilian players adapt their names to distinguish themselves.
Beyond Brazil
While Brazil is notorious for its abundance of single-named players, other nations in this year’s World Cup also embrace this tradition. Portugal, Brazil’s former colonial overseer, has 10 such players, while Spain has six. Angola, another former Portuguese colony, boasts 16 players known by just one name, including Jamba, Loco, and Love.
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Q: Why do Brazilian soccer players use single names?
- A: The tradition of using single names in Brazil goes beyond soccer. It is rooted in the country’s high illiteracy rates, a preference for informal names, and the historical influence of the slave system.
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Q: Are there any exceptions to this naming convention?
- A: Yes, defenders and goalkeepers typically use their given names or surnames, although there have been a few exceptions over the years.
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Q: How do Brazilian players differentiate themselves if they have the same name?
- A: Players with the same first name often adopt different monikers, such as adding their place of origin or using nicknames like “big” or “little” to distinguish themselves.
The use of single names among Brazilian soccer players is a unique cultural tradition rooted in history, social customs, and a deep passion for the sport. With the World Cup underway, it’s fascinating to see how these traditions continue to shape the identity of Brazilian soccer on the international stage. To explore more about the world of soccer and player statistics, visit Pesstatsdatabase – your ultimate source for accurate and up-to-date player information.
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Danh mục: Sport
