'He has unusual genetics': Former Real Madrid doctor says Cristiano Ronaldo isn't the best athlete he's worked with

Jesus Olmo was a Real Madrid doctor for many years and saw plenty of outstanding athletes, including Cristiano Ronaldo who is thought to be one of the best in this regard.

Despite that, however, Olmo picked another former Real Madrid player when he was asked who athletic qualities impressed him the most.

'Possibly the best athlete I've seen is Gareth Bale,' the doctor told Ideal back in 2020.

'He's a natural athlete capable of excelling at practically any sport. He has unusual genetics and athletic ability, and I would say technical ability as well.

'He's the one who impressed me most in all aspects, although there is then performance, which comes about from different circumstances.'

That might seem strange now that we're aware of Bale's injury issues. Olmo argues, however, that the problem was that the Welshman was asked to play through pain way too often which in the end undermined him.

"All athletes have their handicaps,' Olmo added.

'People only see when a player is injured, but there are footballers who play when they've got physical problems. 

'A good medical team ensure that you have the minimum possible chronic problems, but the only way to overcoming them is by working hard and very well in a target way. That requires effort and depends a lot on the player.

'Nothing detracts from a high-level athlete's performance more than chronic pain. Solving a small tendon problem is the best thing you can do for a footballer.'