Cristiano Ronaldo Responds to Rasmus Hojlund's 'Siu' Celebration: "It Is an Honour"
Cristiano Ronaldo has offered a gracious response after Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund performed the Portuguese star's iconic 'Siu' celebration in Denmark's 1-0 victory over Portugal in their UEFA Nations League quarter-final first leg.
Hojlund, who came off the bench to score the decisive goal, celebrated by mimicking Ronaldo's famous celebration right in front of the 39-year-old superstar. The 22-year-old Danish forward later clarified that he meant no disrespect, describing Ronaldo as his idol.
Far from taking offense, Ronaldo expressed appreciation for the tribute. "It's no problem for me. I know it wasn't out of disrespect," Ronaldo said. "It is not only him who does my celebration around the world. I'm smart enough to understand that. For me it is an honour."
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United legend even playfully warned that he hopes to return the favor in the second leg. "I hope to do it in front of him tomorrow [on Sunday]. It will be good. I'm glad he likes my celebration," Ronaldo added.
The celebration moment highlighted the influence Ronaldo continues to have on younger players, many of whom grew up watching his exploits at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and with the Portuguese national team.
Both players will now focus on the return leg in Lisbon, where Portugal will attempt to overturn the one-goal deficit as Denmark looks to advance to the Nations League semi-finals. The second leg represents an opportunity for Ronaldo to potentially have the last laugh with his own celebration if Portugal can turn the tie around.
