Ronaldo shows off new svelte figure in Brazil

Ronaldo plays a farewell soccer match between former Palmeiras Club players and former Brazil national team players Tuesday.

Andre Penner/AP

Former Brazil striker Ronaldo has shed 17 kilograms (37.5 pounds) in a televised weight-loss program that saw his once-pronounced beer belly be replaced by defined abs.

The three-time FIFA player of the year weighed in at 101 kilos on Sunday, down from 118 kilos when he began the three-month-long fitness program in September. The circumference of his stomach went from 107 centimeters (42 inches) to 93 centimeters (36 inches).

The "Fantastico'' variety show chronicled the former striker's intense exercise routines, which included weight lifting, swimming, dance and yoga classes and forays onto the football pitch.

Ronaldo retired early last year but has since remained in the public eye as a member of the local organizing committee for the 2014 World Cup. He's also done commercials, some of which poked fun at his dramatic weight gain.