Brazilian soccer star Roberto Carlos, 52, had successful emergency heart surgery in São Paulo on Dec. 31, 2025, after a routine check revealed heart issues.

Former Brazil and Real Madrid football legend Roberto Carlos, 52, underwent emergency heart surgery in São Paulo, Brazil, on December 31, 2025, after a routine check for a leg blood clot revealed a heart issue. A full-body MRI detected heart dysfunction, leading to a catheter insertion procedure that lasted nearly three hours due to complications. The surgery was successful, and Carlos is reported to be recovering well, stating he is “fine now.” He remains under hospital observation for 48 hours. Carlos, a 2002 World Cup winner and three-time Champions League champion with Real Madrid, played 125 times for Brazil and is famed for his iconic “banana” free kick.