Early Life and Family Background: Ruud Gullit was born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to George Gullit, a Surinamese immigrant, and Ria Dil, a Dutch woman. He grew up in a multicultural and supportive household that nurtured his love for sports, particularly football. Gullit’s passion for the game developed at an early age, influenced by his father’s own sporting interests and the vibrant football culture in the Netherlands.
Early Years and Hardships: Gullit began his football journey playing in the streets of Amsterdam before joining the local club DWS. His talent was evident from a young age, but his early career was not without challenges. He faced racial discrimination, which was a significant issue in European football during the 1970s and 1980s. Despite these challenges, Gullit remained focused and determined to succeed.
International Career: Gullit was a key figure in the Dutch national team, earning 66 caps and scoring 17 goals. He captained the Netherlands to their first major international triumph at the UEFA Euro 1988, where they won the tournament. His leadership and performances were crucial in the team’s success.
Personal Life and Legacy: Ruud Gullit has been married and divorced several times. He has children from these marriages and is known to keep his personal life relatively private. Gullit is also known for his work as a television commentator and analyst, where his insights are valued by football fans worldwide.
Successes and Stardom: Gullit’s career is marked by numerous successes, including domestic league titles, European Cups, and individual awards like the Ballon d’Or. His style of play, characterized by athleticism, technical skill, and intelligence, made him one of the most admired footballers of his generation. His iconic dreadlocks and charismatic personality further enhanced his stardom.
Ups and Downs: While Gullit enjoyed considerable success, he also faced challenges, including injuries and the difficulties of transitioning to a managerial role. Despite these ups and downs, his contributions to football have left a lasting legacy.
Real Name: Rudi Dil Gullit
Date of Birth: September 1, 1962
Birth Place: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Residence: Netherlands (varies due to professional commitments)
Profession: Former professional footballer, football manager, and television commentator
Nationality: Dutch
Religion: Not publicly specified
Partner: Estelle Cruijff (divorced)
Father: George Gullit
Mother: Ria Dil
Horoscope: Virgo
Age: 61 (as of 2024)
Weight: Around 88 kg (194 lbs)
Height: 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)
Body Type: Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black (often worn in dreadlocks during his playing career)