Biography
Who is Rui Patrício?
Early life and career beginnings
Rui Pedro dos Santos Patrício was born on February 15, 1988, in Marrazes, Portugal. He initially played as a striker during his youth in Leiria. A Sporting CP scout observed him playing in goal and decided to sign the young player for the club academy at the age of twelve. He developed through the youth system and eventually made his professional debut for Sporting CP.
His Primeira Liga debut took place on November 19, 2006, against Marítimo. He replaced the habitual first choice goalkeeper Ricardo and successfully saved a penalty kick near the end of the match to secure a win. Following Ricardo's departure to Real Betis, he secured the starting goalkeeper position for the team during the 2007 to 2008 season.
Club career highlights
Rui Patrício spent twelve years with Sporting CP, appearing in 467 official games. He won multiple trophies with the club, including two Portuguese Cups and the Taça da Liga. In June 2018, he moved to England and joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on a four year deal. He established a club record by keeping nine clean sheets during his first season in the Premier League.
After his time in England, he joined Italian side Roma in July 2014 on a three year deal. Under the management of compatriot José Mourinho, he helped the team win the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League in his first season. He later joined Atalanta and subsequently Al Ain before announcing his retirement from professional football on December 10, 2025.
International career with Portugal
Rui Patrício represented Portugal across various youth levels before making his senior international debut on November 17, 2010, against Spain. He became the first choice goalkeeper under coach Paulo Bento and played in the finals of UEFA Euro 2012, helping the team reach the semi-finals. He also participated in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
He reached a major milestone during UEFA Euro 2016 by winning the tournament with Portugal after defeating France in the final. In 2019, he won the UEFA Nations League on home soil, earning his 81st cap and surpassing Vítor Baía as the nation's most capped goalkeeper. He reached 100 caps in October 2021 during a World Cup qualifying match against Luxembourg.
Personal life and height
Rui Patrício stands at a height of 189 centimeters. He married Joana Pereira in June 2011 before filing for divorce later that same year. He later married television sexologist Vera Ribeiro, and the couple has a son and a daughter together.
Throughout his career, he has received recognition for his contributions to sport, including being awarded the Commander of the Order of Merit of Portugal. He concluded a 19 year senior career when he retired in December 2025.
Birthday and age
Rui Patrício was born on February 15, 1988, which makes Rui 38 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Rui shares the date with 30 other famous people.
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