The day has come that many football purists dreaded: Ronaldinho has retired.The 37-year-old hasn't played an official game since 2015 when he suited up for Fluminense in the Brazilian league, but he had refrained from calling it a day until now.The 97-time Brazilian international has appeared in various charity games since then and he is likely to continue to do so in the near future.His brother and agent Roberto Assis confirmed the retirement on Tuesday and announced a series of tribute events following the 2018 World Cup."He has stopped, it is ended," Assis said. "We will do various events in Brazil, Europe and Asia and, of course, we are arranging something with the Brazilian team as well."Naturally, the football world has risen to salute the former Barcelona and AC Milan legend and the tributes have been pouring in, with the two aforementioned clubs paying special tribute.However, none have been as beautiful as his compatriot Neymar's.The Paris Saint-Germain forward, who is the most expensive footballer in the history of the game, wrote a tribute to Ronaldinho on Instagram and we have the translation for you below:

Neymar wrote: "What an honour to be part of your history. I'll always remember your joy on the field. You've left a legacy that will hardly be beaten in the art of football. Thank you for everything that you did for football lovers."

Although Neymar is 12 years Ronaldinho's junior, they were able to play together for Brazil for three years before the latter's last appearance in 2013.

In fact, plenty of fans remember how they tore apart Argentina together back in 2011 - watch the clip below to see football played the right way!

Speaking after Neymar decided to leave Barcelona in the summer, Ronaldinho was clearly disappointed his compatriot decided to depart the Nou Camp.

"Yes, he was careful, although it is difficult that Neymar's heart did not tell him that the best place was Barcelona," he told Mundo Deportivo.

Still, there's certainly a big brother relationship between the two and players like Ronaldinho paved the way for the likes of Neymar today.