Patrice Evra shares story of Cristiano Ronaldo’s relentless competitive spirit
Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has recalled an incident that he says perfectly captures the competitive mindset of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo.
According to Evra, Ronaldo once lost a game of table tennis to former teammate Rio Ferdinand while other players celebrated Ferdinand’s victory.
Evra said Ronaldo was so unhappy with the defeat that he sent his cousin to buy a table tennis table. He then reportedly spent two weeks practising before challenging Ferdinand to another match.
When they played again, Evra said Ronaldo defeated Ferdinand in front of everyone.
The former full-back used the story to illustrate Ronaldo’s relentless drive to improve, describing him as someone who hates losing and is willing to work hard to turn defeat into victory.
He said …
“Cristiano’s a machine. He was playing table tennis and Rio Ferdinand beat him & we were all screaming. Ronaldo was so upset. Then he sent his cousin to buy a table tennis. He trained for two weeks and came back & beat Rio in front of everyone. That’s Cristiano.”
Watch video below …
“Cristiano’s a machine. He was playing table tennis and Rio Ferdinand beat him & we were all screaming. Ronaldo was so upset. Then he sent his cousin to buy a table tennis. He trained for two weeks and came back & beat Rio in front of everyone. That’s Cristiano.” 😂🐐
— Patrice… pic.twitter.com/zKvhNs6IHo
— SKB (@seyikanbai) July 11, 2026