Barcelona and Brazil legend Ronaldinho announced his retirement on Tuesday night, bringing to an end one of the most magical careers of the modern era.

The buck-toothed Brazilian with his infectious smile and feet that produced wizardry made him one of the most-loved footballers of his generation.

Here’s how social media reacted to the news.

Lionel Messi led the tributes for his former team-mate, writing: “As I always said, I learned a lot by your side. I will always be grateful for how easy you made everything for me when I got to the locker room. I was lucky to share many things with you and I am very happy because, in addition to a phenomenon with the ball, you are a very great person and that is the most important thing. Even if you decide to leave, football will never forget your smile. All the best, Ronnie.”

Neymar, who’s taken up the mantle of Brazil’s next great hope, paid tribute to one of his country’s legendary footballers with an Instagram post that read: “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.”

Fellow Brazilians Kaka – who also announced his retirement recently – and Roberto Carlos, both of whom won the 2002 World Cup alongside Ronaldinho, joined in the tributes. Kaka wrote: “It was a pleasure to see you play, a privilege to play at your side and an honor to win titles together! Very successful in the next stage of your life my partner.”

Roberto Carlos’ message read: “Today my tribute goes to this great friend that I have made in football, thank you very much for everything you have done for us and for the world of football, you will be one of those that has made us enjoy this sport. Thank you very much my friend, thank you very much for your magic.”

Ronaldinho’s former Barcelona team-mates, Samuel Eto’o, Carlos Puyol, Deco, and Gianluca Zambrotta were quick to show their appreciation, with Eto’o writing simply: “My brother and friend. Thank you for everything.”

Deco said: “Football is sadder today … Lucky and grateful to have had the pleasure of playing with one of the greatest players of all time !!! Friend for life for all … Welcome to Retirement!

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who was on the receiving end of some of Ronaldinho’s more memorable moments, also paid homage, saying: “I was forced to suffer at your hands but as a football lover, I also enjoyed watching you!”

Tributes from the rest of the footballing world poured in.