Sylvester Dordzi
Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese footballer who has mesmerized fans worldwide with his incredible goals, is not only known for his athletic prowess but also for his iconic goal celebrations. However, during a recent match for his Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, Ronaldo surprised the world with a unique gesture that went viral on social media. This article explores Ronaldo’s ‘Sajdah’ goal celebration, its significance, and the reactions it garnered from fans across the region.
The Unveiling of Ronaldo’s ‘Sajdah’ Goal Celebration:
Following a crucial goal in Al Nassr’s 3-2 victory against Al-Shabab, Ronaldo deviated from his usual ‘Siu’ celebration and embraced a gesture commonly performed in the host country, Saudi Arabia. The ‘Sajdah,’ a reverent bow or prostration often seen among Muslim footballers after scoring, became Ronaldo’s choice to express his gratitude and humility towards the momentous achievement.
The Impact and Virality:
Ronaldo’s ‘Sajdah’ goal celebration quickly gained traction on social media platforms, sparking an avalanche of comments from fans across the region. Ali Alabdallah, a prominent Saudi sports correspondent, shared a video of the moment, praising Ronaldo’s act of thankfulness and expressing hopes for the football star’s spiritual journey. The gesture touched the hearts of many, with countless fans rejoicing at both Ronaldo’s victory and his display of religious reverence.
The ‘Sajdah’ Gesture in Sports:
The ‘Sajdah’ goal celebration is a symbolic gesture predominantly observed by Muslim footballers. Notably, Egyptian Liverpool forward Mo Salah has frequently performed this action after scoring goals. It finds its roots in the traditional Islamic prayer, where worshippers prostrate themselves on the ground, touching their foreheads to the earth. This act of humility and submission is often practiced while facing the ‘qibla,’ the direction of the Kaaba in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Ronaldo’s Journey with Al Nassr:
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia last year has been significant, not only for the football club but also for the kingdom itself. As Saudi Arabia aims to reshape its global image and diversify its economy beyond oil and gas, the acquisition of a global football icon like Ronaldo has drawn attention to the country’s sporting scene. Ronaldo’s presence in Saudi Arabia has provided an opportunity to foster cultural exchange, bridge gaps, and showcase the nation’s passion for football.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Sajdah’ goal celebration during a recent match for Al Nassr resonated deeply with fans worldwide. This unique gesture exemplified his respect for the Saudi Arabian culture and demonstrated the unity that sports can bring. The ‘Sajdah’ celebration holds a special place in the hearts of Muslim footballers, symbolizing their gratitude and spiritual connection. As Ronaldo continues his journey in Saudi Arabia, his actions on and off the field have the potential to shape perceptions and promote inclusivity in the world of sports.
