Brazil's Ronaldinho: Best in the World Keeps Getting Better

The childlike toothy grin and wavy black locks, harnessed in a tight ponytail, are ubiquitous worldwide. He is Ronaldinho, the brightest star of the best team in the biggest sporting event on the planet, and all signs point to this being his big year. He was voted the world's premier player -- again -- and was the engine that led Barcelona to another Spanish title as well as the Champions League title.

At times, Ronaldinho, whose nickname means "Little Ronaldo" in Portuguese to distinguish him from Real Madrid striker and Brazil teammate Ronaldo, can take over games with swashbuckling runs and can leave opponents dizzy with an ever-growing array of outlandish footwork. His joy on the field is obvious, and he is as adept at putting teammates into scoring position as he is at burying the ball himself. His free kicks are ever-dangerous. And he is only 26 years old. He might already be the greatest player his country has produced since Pele and, with another World Cup or two beyond this one, he could surpass that icon's status. Should he stand with the World Cup trophy hoisted over his head, and the Golden Boot (top scorer) and Golden Ball (most valuable player) awards tucked under the other arm, few would be surprised.