Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with football greatness, recently celebrated his 40th birthday in a way that only he could inspire—through a vibrant tribute in the heart of New York City. Just days after netting his historic 922nd and 923rd career goals in a commanding 4-0 victory against Al Wasl, this five-time Ballon d’Or winner was honored with tributes that reflected his monumental influence on the sport.
To mark this significant milestone, fans flocked to Times Square with a noble goal: to break the world record for the largest number of people performing Ronaldo’s legendary “Siu” celebration simultaneously. For those unfamiliar, this exuberant display of joy was introduced during a preseason match with Real Madrid in 2013. Picture this: Ronaldo scores, dashes to the corner flag, leaps high, spreads his arms wide, and lands in a triumphant pose while calling out “Siiiiiuuuuu!” This electric moment echoes around the globe, as fans everywhere take delight in reenacting it, uniting them in their love for the game and one of its greatest icons.
The event was spearheaded by Portuguese artist Sergio Furnari, who crafted a striking 12-foot metal monument of Ronaldo to capture the essence of this phenomenon. His call to action on Instagram resonated deeply with fans: “February 5th, if you love Ronaldo, come to Times Square to celebrate. It’s his 40th birthday—don’t miss it! We’re going to break the world record for the ‘Siu’ celebration!” This rallying cry did more than celebrate a player; it honored a cultural moment that extends beyond the pitch, emphasizing how many view Ronaldo not just as an athlete, but as a symbol of passion, dedication, and excellence.
While the iconic striker was unable to join in the festivities due to Al-Nassr’s packed Saudi Pro League schedule—a critical match against Al Feiha looming on the horizon—his presence was still felt in every cheer and chant. Under head coach Stefano Pioli, Al-Nassr is currently pursuing league rivals Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, sitting eight points back. Yet, even in Ronaldo’s absence, the atmosphere was electric. His legacy filled the air, brought to life through enthusiastic gatherings of fans, the towering monument, and the infectious excitement emanating from the crowd.
As people came together to honor a footballing legend during this momentous occasion, it was clear that Ronaldo’s impact on the sport—and on his fans—is nothing short of extraordinary. Through dedication and charisma, he has inspired millions, and this celebration was a testament to how deeply his love for the game resonates with people around the world. From the grand streets of New York to stadiums filled with supporters, Ronaldo’s influence transcends the traditional boundaries of sport, uniting generations in celebration of a shared love for football.
