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The best footballer in the world, recognized Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo, claims that competition helps him improve.
In the battle for the "Golden Ball", Portugal defeated longtime rival Lionel Messi and the shining Franck Ribery in 2013, but he says that without competitors he would not have been able to achieve such heights.
"Competition helps me become a better footballer. Not only competing with Messi, but also with other players," said the 28-year-old forward.
"In England and other countries there are high-level footballers who also create competition. For example, Luis Suarez, Andres Iniesta, Neymar, Gareth Bale, Diego Costa, or Radamel Falcao."
"I know that if I work hard and show my ambitions, I will be the best on the field. I have always considered myself a professional. That is my attitude," Ronaldo continued.
"I have learned a lot from other players. Gary Neville helped me at Manchester United, in Madrid I learned from Raul and Michel Salgado, and in the national team - from Luis Figo, Rui Costa, Deco, and Fernando Couto."
"70% of a footballer's success is made up of professional behavior," said the Portuguese.
