A stunning new tribute to soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo was unveiled in Times Square on Wednesday, as renowned sculptor Sergio Furnari presented a towering 12-foot bronze monument to mark the iconic player’s 40th birthday.
The massive sculpture, a blend of terra cotta and steel, was designed to immortalize Ronaldo not only as a sports icon but as a global cultural symbol.
Furnari, known for his celebrated terra cotta-and-steel piece inspired by the iconic “Lunchtime atop a Skyscraper” photograph, said the sculpture was crafted to honor Ronaldo’s impact far beyond the pitch.
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“Cristiano Ronaldo is more than just a football player; he is a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and global unity,” Furnari explained in a press release.
The monument, a striking fusion of green, red, and gold, was mounted on a truck and transported to the heart of Times Square. Crowds of passionate fans, many waving Portuguese flags, gathered to celebrate the occasion with an outpouring of energy and devotion. Their chants of Ronaldo’s legendary “Siu!” — the famous goal celebration where he leaps into the air, arms wide, and lands with a powerful stance — echoed through the Crossroads of the World.
The “Siu” celebration, a defining moment for Ronaldo after every goal, has become a fan favorite, with supporters worldwide enthusiastically chanting along during games.
Videos from Times Square showed the scene in full swing, with fans banging drums, singing, and shouting the iconic chant with fervor.
This powerful tribute not only honors Ronaldo’s extraordinary football career but also highlights the cultural influence he continues to have across the globe.
