Soccer fans in the Upstate are buzzing with excitement as global football legend Ronaldinho has officially joined the ownership group of USL League One’s Greenville Triumph SC and USL W League’s Greenville Liberty SC. Known worldwide for his dazzling skills, creative flair, and incredible career achievements, Ronaldinho’s involvement is set to propel Greenville Pro Soccer (GPS) to new heights both locally and internationally.
The announcement came in spectacular fashion on October 9, when Ronaldinho rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange during International Day—a fitting stage for the Brazilian icon to step into his new role.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Ronaldinho’s legendary status in the sport speaks volumes about the direction Greenville Triumph and Liberty are heading. With his backing, the club’s profile will not only rise within U.S. soccer but will attract global attention, particularly with the 2026 World Cup set to take center stage in North America.
“We are honored to welcome Ronaldinho into the Triumph family,” said Joe Erwin, Chairman of Greenville Triumph SC. “His influence in the sport is unmatched, and his presence in our ownership group shows just how high we’re aiming as a club.”
Ronaldinho, who electrified fans across the globe with clubs like Barcelona, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as with Brazil’s national team, where he helped secure the 2002 World Cup, is more than just a famous name. His passion for growing the game and nurturing young talent aligns with the mission of Greenville’s teams, which prioritize youth development and fostering a competitive soccer culture.
“This is an opportunity to support soccer’s growth at all ages and levels,” Ronaldinho said. “I’m excited to be part of a community that values international presence and diverse cultures.”
With the club’s youth academy teams already thriving and the professional and pre-professional squads excelling, Ronaldinho’s arrival could be the spark that elevates the Triumph and Liberty programs to new levels. Greenville is now positioned as a significant player on the U.S. soccer landscape, especially with Atlanta, a 2026 World Cup host city, just a short drive away.
The Ronaldinho effect promises to go far beyond the pitch, inspiring a new generation of players and fans while building bridges between the U.S. and the international soccer community.
Greenville Triumph and Liberty SC’s ownership group, which includes the likes of Joe Erwin, Wallace Cheves, and others, can now boast one of soccer’s most recognizable faces. The future of the sport in Upstate South Carolina just got a whole lot brighter!
