Cristiano Ronaldo’s former bodyguard has spoken candidly about the demands and risks of his profession, revealing that “you have to be willing to give your life” to protect a client.
Living with and prepared to die for Ronaldo
Hichman, who worked for the Portuguese footballer for four years, spoke to TardeAR about the realities of private security – a line of work often shrouded in mystery, and recently brought into the spotlight by the viral fame of Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi’s bodyguard at Inter Miami.
“Our work depends on the client’s profile. In Cristiano’s case, even though I worked with him for four years, his profile wasn’t considered high-risk – people weren’t trying to kill him, he wasn’t under death threats,” he said. “The threats came from overzealous fans or people looking to steal from him.”
But that didn’t mean the job was easy. As one of the most recognized figures on the planet, Ronaldo’s presence drew intense public attention. “We always have to know where we’re going, who’s going to be there, and have clear exit and entry points, as well as contact points,” Hichman explained.
He stressed that being a bodyguard is never risk-free. “You always have to keep in mind that your life will be in danger. You need to be ready to protect someone – and sometimes, that means being ready to give your life. If I have to use weapons, I’ll use them.”
Hichman said he was paid €1,000 (about $1,080) for each day working alongside Ronaldo. He also dismissed the idea that brute strength or an imposing physique is essential in his line of work. “The most important thing is being able to think fast, solve problems, and stay calm in complicated situations.”
Cristiano was “one of the best bosses”
Reflecting on his time with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, he had nothing but praise. “He’s one of the best bosses I’ve ever had. We have a good relationship. It wasn’t like working with someone under threat of assassination or kidnapping. We had a few incidents with paparazzi or fans who went a bit crazy, but nothing more serious than that.”
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