Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Sajdah’ goal celebration goes viral

CNN
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Famous Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored hundreds of goals in his career, invariably celebrates by running towards the corner flag to perform his iconic “Siu” celebration – pirouettes through the air before landing in a position of power.

But after scoring a decisive goal for his Saudi club Al Nassr in a 3-2 win over Al-Shabab, Ronaldo celebrated with a gesture similar to one commonly performed in the Arab country that hosts him – a Sajdah, the deep bow or prostration often played by Muslim footballers after scoring.

After his winning strike – Saudi media call it ‘his best goal since arriving in Saudi Arabia’ – Ronaldo bowed to the ground, surrounded by his yellow-shirted Al Nassr teammates who cheered him on with the fans In the stadium.

His gesture went viral on social media, prompting a whirlwind of comments from fans across the region.

“Cristiano Ronaldo’s joy with the third goal and his prostration before God in thanks,” Saudi sports correspondent Ali Alabdallah tweeted to his 411,000 followers.

“May God guide his heart to Islam,” he said in his caption to the video.

Many others rejoiced at the win and the gesture that came with it, wishing the star player future success.

The move, which includes a bow to the ground and touching the grass with one’s forehead, is a celebratory gesture performed mostly by Muslim footballers.

He was repeatedly executed by Egyptian Liverpool striker Mo Salah after scoring goals.

It is also part of standardized Islamic prayer, traditionally practiced facing the “qibla”, or the direction of the Kaaba in the Saudi holy city of Mecca.

Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia last year. Its acquisition is part of the kingdom’s efforts to revamp its global image and expand its economy beyond oil and gas.