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Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo insists he's a normal person, despite the intense media hype surrounding him.

"In my head I am a normal person," Ronaldo,  "We have a profession that gives us nice things but also gives us responsibilities. We must win all the time, the pressure is great, but as professionals we adapt."

Cristiano made history this summer when Real Madrid bought him from Manchester United for a record $131 million transfer fee. Since then, the Portuguese international winger has been under pressure to justify his hefty price tag.

On Aug. 29, Ronaldo began delivering on his promise when he scored his first goal of the season in Madrid's 3-2 opening win against Deportivo La Coruña.

It's no accident that Cristiano, who is the reigning FIFA World Player of the Year, is the most expensive footballer in history. Ronaldo, who has been playing soccer since the age of 3, is known for his legendary work ethic. 

Cristiano has won high praise from ex-United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who says Ronaldo is the undisputed best player in the world. What sets Cris apart from other players is his consistency and peak athletic form, says Sir Alex.

"That's one of the things [Ronaldo] has above all other players: He was never injured, he always played. He never missed training," says Ferguson. "His contribution as a goal threat is unbelievable. His stats are incredible."

While innate athletic ability is crucial to Cristiano's football dominance, the superstar also works out rigorously and watches his diet. Ronaldo doesn't eat much junk food, and isn't a big drinker. During the season, his workout regimen includes plenty of running, stretching and weight training, as well as practice football matches with his teammates.

"I will prove to myself, my family, those who love me and those people who hired me, that I am worth it," Ronaldo vows. "I can say no more [but instead will] just work. "