Gareth Bale has opened up about the experience of having Cristiano Ronaldo as a teammate – especially when the star would get ‘angry’ after personal performances.
The pair were colleagues at Real Madrid between 2013 and 2018, working alongside Karim Benzema in a legendary trio of attackers that destroyed teams in LaLiga and the Champions League.
But speaking on Martin Borgmeier’s YouTube channel at the BMW International Open Pro-Am golf tournament, the Welshman has revealed a rare insight into what it was like sharing a dressing room with the Portuguese megastar.
Bale said: ‘He was actually okay. He had his moments.
‘For example, if we win 5-0 and he didn’t score, he comes in and throws his boots like he’s angry.
Gareth Bale has opened up about his experiences of having Cristiano Ronaldo as a team-mate
Alongside Karim Benzema, they were a formidable upfront partnership at Real Madrid
Bale revealed his opinions in a candid video interview which took place on a golf course
‘It’s like your team winning in the Ryder Cup but you didn’t get a point so you are angry.
‘But he was a nice guy, nothing wrong, we didn’t really have any problems.
‘A lot of people could be scared of how he is but if you’re not then it’s fine.’
Bale was questioned about whether Ronaldo thanked the team for their support in aiding his route to the individual Ballon d’Or trophies.
Initially the Welshman replied: ‘I dunno… I think he did but…’
Upon spotting the camera, Bale pointed to it, and changed his tune. ‘Yes, he did,’ the 33-year-old said, laughing.
Earlier this month, he caused a stir when he named Lionel Messi as the greatest player to win the Champions League – which online fans took as a snub to Ronaldo.
On Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami, Bale previously warned the Argentine superstar that there was less pressure to win in MLS than there was in the top flight of Spain – having been a player in both leagues.
Bale said: ‘It is a lot more chilled (in MLS). If you lose at Real Madrid, it is like the world has ended.
‘You are crucified. You feel down. You go home and you’re not happy.
The Welshman controversially called Lionel Messi the best man to win the Champions League
Bale has experience of the top flight in Spain with Real Madrid and MLS with Los Angeles FC
‘They accept losing a bit more (in America). There is no consequence. You can’t get relegated over there.
‘When you lose a game you go on to the next one. They accept losing a lot better over there.
‘They know how to lose but they celebrate every win like you have won the championship. He will definitely enjoy it.’
Bale announced his retirement from football in January after six months with Los Angeles FC.
