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Roberto Carlos Recovers After Emergency Heart Surgery: "I Am Fine Now"

Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos underwent emergency heart surgery after a routine hospital visit for a leg clot revealed a cardiac issue. The procedure, expected to take 40 minutes, lasted three hours due to complications, but the 52-year-old is now reported to be fine. Carlos, a 2002 World Cup winner and Real Madrid icon, will remain under hospital observation for 48 hours. Known for his powerful free-kicks and storied career, he recently participated in events for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw.

Key Points: Roberto Carlos Heart Surgery: Brazil Icon Recovering

  • Emergency surgery after MRI scan
  • Procedure took three hours
  • 2002 World Cup winner stable
  • Iconic Real Madrid left-back
2 min read

Real Madrid, Brazil icon Roberto Carlos undergoes heart surgery, says "I am fine"

Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos undergoes emergency heart surgery after a routine check-up. The 2002 World Cup winner is now stable and recovering.

"I am fine now. - Roberto Carlos via his entourage"

Brasilia, December 31

Real Madrid and Brazil icon Roberto Carlos underwent an emergency heart surgery, reported GOAL.com.

Carlos, considered as one of the finest left-backs to have graced the pitch and having represented Brazil in over 120 matches, had returned to his homeland after a hectic 2026, which included being involved in the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw. Carlos had initially made a visit to the hospital for a small blood clot in his leg.

But upon undergoing a full-body MRI scan, a heart issue was detected, and the 52-year-old icon, a 2002 FIFA World Cup winner, had to undergo an emergency surgery and a tube was fitted. The procedure, which usually gets done in 40 minutes, took almost three hours due to complications, as per Diario AS.

Carlos is reported to be doing well after his surgery but will be kept under hospital observation for 48 hours. Via his entourage, Carlos said as per GOAL.com, "I am fine now."

The Brazilian is best known for his time at Real Madrid from 1996-2007, during which he made 370 appearances. Besides this, he has also represented homeland clubs like Uniao Sao Joao, Palmeiras, Corinthians and Italian giants Inter Milan. He also represented now-defunct Indian Super League (ISL) team Delhi Dynamos from 2015-16 briefly before taking on a managerial role within the team.

Carlos has won top football honours like the FIFA World Cup, La Liga (the top-flight Spanish league), UEFA Champions League and Copa America. His stint with Real Madrid, which spanned from 1996 to 2007, saw him win three UEFA Champions League honours and four La Liga titles, making him one of the biggest names of his era.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is so scary. He seemed so fit and strong. It just shows that heart issues can happen to anyone, even athletes. We should all get regular check-ups. Wishing him a speedy recovery.
A
Aman W
He played for Delhi Dynamos! I remember watching him live at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. An absolute icon who actually came to India. Hope he recovers fully. 🤲
S
Sarah B
The article mentions the surgery took 3 hours instead of 40 minutes. That must have been terrifying for his family. Modern medicine is a blessing. Glad he's stable.
V
Vikram M
A true legend of the game. His power and technique from left-back changed how the position was played. Wishing him good health. On a side note, the article could have explained the specific heart issue a bit more clearly.
K
Kavya N
He went in for a leg clot and they found a heart problem. Thank God for that MRI scan! It probably saved his life. A lesson for all of us not to ignore routine tests.

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