Brazil’s Romário returns to training at age 58, scores twice and keeps sharp tongue

By MAURICIO SAVARESE The Associated Press

FILE - Former soccer player Romário campaigns as a gubernatorial candidate at the Complexo de Alemao slum, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Oct. 4, 2018. Romário returned to training on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at age 58, almost two decades after he retired from the sport, with Rio's America soccer club, of which he is the president. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo, File)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Silvia Izquierdo]

SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian soccer hero Romário has returned to training at age 58, almost two decades after he retired from the sport. The 1994 World Cup winner turned politician netted two goals as he practiced with much younger players at struggling Rio de Janeiro club América, of which he is the president. América will play in Rio state’s second division championship this year. Romarinho, one of the sons of the former Barcelona star, is in its squad. Romário says “My biggest goal here is to have the chance to play with my son.” América will play its first league match on May 18.