Roberto Baggio Age, Height, Position, Number

Roberto Baggio OMRI is an Italian former professional footballer renowned for his exceptional skill and versatility on the field. Baggio primarily played as a second striker or attacking midfielder, but his adaptability allowed him to excel in various offensive positions. Known for his creative playmaking, set-piece expertise, and remarkable dribbling abilities, Baggio is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Roberto Baggio
Image Credit: ABC News

Career Highlights

Baggio’s career is decorated with numerous accolades and achievements. In 1993, he was named FIFA World Player of the Year and won the prestigious Ballon d’Or. He came fourth in the FIFA Player of the Century internet poll in 1999 and was selected for the FIFA World Cup Dream Team in 2002. In 2004, he was included in the FIFA 100, a list of the world’s greatest living players curated by Pelé.

During his international career, Baggio represented Italy in 56 matches, scoring 27 goals, making him the joint fourth-highest scorer for the national team. He played pivotal roles in Italy’s third-place finish at the 1990 FIFA World Cup and their runner-up position in 1994, where he scored five goals and was awarded the World Cup Silver Ball. Baggio is the only Italian to have scored in three different World Cups, holding the record for most goals in World Cup tournaments for Italy alongside Paolo Rossi and Christian Vieri.

Club Career

Baggio’s club career saw him play for several prominent Italian clubs, including Vicenza, Fiorentina, Juventus, AC Milan, Bologna, Inter Milan, and Brescia. In 1990, he moved from Fiorentina to Juventus for a world-record transfer fee. Throughout his career, Baggio won two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, and a UEFA Cup. He is the seventh-highest goalscorer in Serie A history with 205 goals and the fifth-highest-scoring Italian in all competitions with 318 goals.

Philanthropy and Recognition

Beyond his footballing achievements, Baggio is also known for his philanthropy and humanitarian efforts. In 2002, he was named a Goodwill Ambassador of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Through this role, he supported various causes, including funding hospitals, aiding victims of natural disasters, and advocating for human rights.

In recognition of his charitable work, Baggio received the Man of Peace award from the Nobel Peace Prize Laureates in 2010. He was also the first footballer inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

Cultural Impact

Baggio’s influence extends beyond football into popular culture. He has been referenced in songs, commercials, and television shows. His nickname, “Il Divin Codino” (The Divine Ponytail), highlights his iconic hairstyle and remarkable talent. Baggio’s penalty miss in the 1994 World Cup final is still remembered and has been featured in various media, including commercials and video games.

In 2019, Netflix announced a documentary on Baggio’s life, and in 2021, they released a docudrama titled “Baggio: The Divine Ponytail,” chronicling his illustrious career.