While claiming that critics wait with "rifles" for him at every opportunity, Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed how he has got used to constant criticism directed his way over the years.
Read: PSG To Make €180m Bid For Real Trio
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has now acknowledged he faces pressure on a daily basis in order to maintain and even surpass the high standards he has set for himself.
"I don't think people believe I'm a robot, but they see me as someone who can never have a problem, can never be sad, never have worries," Ronaldo told La Repubblica
"People identify success, being carefree, with money. 'How can he be sad or have a crisis if he is a millionaire?'
"You must understand that not everybody is the same, they still experience certain things. But I understand it. I know that people stand with their rifles waiting for me to miss a penalty or to fail in a decisive game.
"But it is part of life and I must be prepared to accept that. And I have been prepared for many years."
When asked if he has grown tired of having to constantly prove himself, Ronaldo replied: "I do not deny that sometimes it bothers me and I get tired because it seems that every year I must prove myself to be very strong. It is difficult.
"You also have to take into account the additional pressure of having to prove something to others, not just yourself. And to the people around you. To your family, to your mother, to your child. 'Cris, tomorrow you must win’. You have to train continuously, but there comes a moment when you say: 'Listen, leave me alone'."
Ronaldo has enjoyed a successful debut campaign in Italy, finding the back of the net on 28 occasions and registering 13 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions for Juventus.
Read: Barcelona Transfer Plans - 10 Players Who Could Leave
Do you think Ronaldo is unfairly criticised? Who would you choose between Messi and Ronaldo for your team? Have your say in the comments section below.
