Cristiano Ronaldo gave an extensive interview to the podcast of WHOOP this Wednesday, a company dedicated to physical preparation with which he recently signed a partnership, in which he combed over his career. The Portuguese international recalled his early years in the world of football, especially when, at a 'tender' age, he left the Andorinha youth academy to move to Sporting, where he would end up 'exploding' and reaching other dimensions. "I moved from Madeira to Lisbon when I was 11, which is difficult, to be honest. It was probably the most difficult part of my professional career. It was difficult to leave my family in Madeira to pursue my dream in Lisbon at the age of 11. Now, I see my eldest son, Cristiano... I don't know if I would be able to let him go, two years older than I was. It will be difficult," he said. The now 39-year-old Al Nassr player also opened the 'book' on some of the 'secrets' to longevity, and stressed: "Talent without work is nothing, and work without talent is nothing. I think both are mixed. Of course, I have both. I wouldn't say I have more of one than the other, because looking at my entire career, over the last 20 years, my level has been high". "As you know, that's very difficult, not just in football, but in everything. Being at the top for 20 years is unbelievable, and that's what I keep doing. For me, it's a great achievement. My biggest motivation is to continue enjoying myself, making people happy, making my family happy," he said. "It's not easy to be at this level, to keep fighting and motivating myself to keep scoring goals, to be in good shape, to compete with the young lions who are coming through... When they play against me, they want to show me that they are stronger and faster than me. You have to prepare yourself very well, not only physically, but also mentally," he continued. "But it's a challenge, because if you treat your body well, you can keep it going for many, many years. This is the big challenge for me, and it's great. I'm proud of it, of continuing to compete at the highest level at this age. It's great and it gives me motivation to continue," he added. Also read: Child met Al Hilal stars and even 'reinforced' Jesus' training (Portuguese version)