And former Manchester City star Robinho has now revealed just how tough it was coming up against the ex-England international.
Ferdinand joined the Red Devils from Leeds United in a deal worth £29m in July 2002, making him the world’s most expensive defender at the time.
And he justified that fee over the next 12 seasons, helping United win six Premier League titles, the Champions League and seven other trophies.
Ferdinand retired in 2015 following a year-long stint at QPR and is remembered as one of the top flight’s best ever centre-backs.
Robinho says the 39-year-old is the toughest opponent he’s gone head-to-head with during his career.
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“Another thing: I wasn’t afraid of the physicality,” Robinho told the Daily Mail.
“In Brazil, I didn’t have it easy growing up. People would kick you.
“Italy was the hardest league to score goals in. Those guys just love defending.
“But Rio Ferdinand is the hardest opponent I have faced = strong and quick.
“He didn’t kick you. He was so classy.
“I could do all my step-overs but he would watch the ball and tackle so immaculately. He only got the ball.”
Ferdinand’s old club, United, will be looking to get back to winning ways when they face Newcastle on Saturday (5.30pm).