Roberto Carlos, the legendary Brazilian defender who graced the left flank for Real Madrid across eleven seasons, is making a strong recovery following a scheduled heart procedure in Sao Paulo.
The 52-year-old, who currently serves as an ambassador for the Spanish giants, took to social media to quash speculation that he had experienced a cardiac arrest.
"I did not suffer a heart attack. I am recovering well, and looking forward to returning to full fitness and resuming my professional and personal commitments soon," the three-time Champions League winner stated on Wednesday.
His Instagram post featured a photograph of the former full-back smiling from his hospital bed.
Brazil legend Roberto Carlos has posted a health update after undergoing heart surgery
|Hospital Vila Nova Star in Sao Paulo confirmed that medical professionals identified a cardiac obstruction on Monday, prompting an immediate recommendation for coronary angioplasty.
The procedure, which is considered minimally invasive, works by widening arteries that have become narrowed or blocked.
According to the hospital's statement, the operation proved successful and the former defender remains in a stable condition.
Roberto Carlos continues to be monitored within an intensive care unit, a standard precautionary measure following such interventions.
Spanish media outlet Diario AS reported that whilst the procedure was initially expected to take approximately forty minutes, it ultimately extended to nearly three hours owing to a complication.
Roberto Carlos pictured back in December | GETTYThe World Cup winner was keen to address the circulating rumours directly, stating: "I would like to clarify recent information that has been circling. I recently underwent a preventative medical procedure, planned in advance with my medical team. The procedure was successful, and I am well."
He expressed gratitude towards those who had reached out during his hospitalisation.
"I sincerely thank everyone for the messages of support, care, and concern. I would like to reassure everyone that there is no cause for concern," Roberto Carlos added.
The Brazilian icon also paid tribute to the medical staff at the Sao Paulo facility, offering his "heartfelt thanks" to the entire team responsible for his care.
Roberto Carlos earned 125 caps for his country during a distinguished international career spanning fourteen years, placing him among Brazil's most decorated players.
His trophy cabinet includes the 2002 World Cup triumph in Japan and South Korea, having also reached the final four years earlier in France.
The attacking full-back claimed Copa America honours twice, in 1997 and 1999.
At club level, his spell with Real Madrid yielded four La Liga titles and three European Cups across 527 appearances.
Individual recognition followed, with the Brazilian finishing second in both the 1997 FIFA World Player of the Year and 2002 Ballon d'Or voting.