Roberto Baggio was one of the most beloved and gifted footballers Italy has produced, an artist of the number ten role whose ponytail earned him the nickname ‘Il Divin Codino’, the Divine Ponytail. Blessed with balance, imagination and a sublime touch, he could unlock any defence and finish with equal artistry.
He shone for Fiorentina, Juventus and Milan, winning honours and the Ballon d’Or in 1993, and became the talisman of the Italian national team. His career is forever entwined with the 1994 World Cup, which he almost carried single-handedly before the anguish of the missed penalty in the final. For all that heartbreak, he is remembered above all for the beauty of his football.