Ricardo van Rhijn (born 13 June 1991 in Leiden, Netherlands) is a Dutch professional football player, currently playing as a right back for Eredivisie side AFC Ajax and the Netherlands national team. He is known for his high work rate and his aerial ability.

RKSV DoCoS
Ricardo van Rhijn began his football career at RKSV DoCoS, where he left a lasting impression as a central defender on the DoCoS sportspark. In 2002, at age twelve, Ricardo van Rhijn transferred to the youth squad of Ajax, turning down offers from other clubs, such as ADO Den Haag and Feyenoord.

AFC Ajax
Three years after transferring to the Amsterdam club, he began playing for the Ajax B1 team in the youth ranks, winning the national championship, under coach Robin Pronk. After this successful season, van Rhijn was offered his first contract, moving up to the Ajax A1 selection, skipping past the Ajax B1 selection, which is the usual next step, and signing on for three years.

Under then youth coach Frank de Boer, Ricardo enjoyed two successful seasons with Ajax A1, defending alongside Timothy van der Meulen in his first year, and Bryan Ottenhof the following season. This led to a contract extension for one additional year. On 21 September 2011, Ricardo made his debut for the senior squad in a KNVB Cup match against VV Noordwijk, helping his side to a 1-3 away win, coming on as a substitute for Toby Alderweireld in the '65 minute.

Ajax has used van Rhijn extensively as a replacement for an injured Gregory van der Wiel. In Van der Wiel's absence he has played very well and has proven to be a rock at the Ajax back line. His quality performances has gained interest from big European clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, A.S. Roma and Valencia CF.