When Rasmus Hojlund unleashed Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature “siu” celebration after scoring for Denmark against Portugal, the football world held its breath. Was it a cheeky jab or a heartfelt tribute? For Ronaldo, watching from the opposition bench, the moment sparked intrigue—and a vow. As the two prepare to clash again in a high-stakes Nations League rematch, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has broken his silence on the gesture, blending grace with a subtle warning: “I hope he can see my celebration next time.”
Mimicry or flattery? The Cristiano Ronaldo celebration that divided opinions
Hojlund’s decision to mirror Ronaldo’s iconic knee-slide and roar during Denmark’s 2-1 victory raised eyebrows. Critics called it disrespectful; fans debated its intent. But the 21-year-old Manchester United striker quickly clarified:
“I meant no harm. I’m a Cristiano fanboy—he’s why I fell in love with football.”
Ronaldo, ever the diplomat, responded with trademark composure:
“For me, it was not a problem. I’m smart enough to understand…people from other sports also do my celebration. It’s an honour.” Yet, the Al-Nassr icon couldn’t resist a playful challenge ahead of Sunday’s rematch: “If I score, it’s good for me. If not, that’s fine too.”
Behind the rivalry lies mutual admiration. Hojlund’s idolization of Cristiano Ronaldo borders on devotion.
“Cristiano is everything to me,” he confessed. “I became a United fan because of him. I started self-training, doing push-ups and sit-ups every night—*all to be like him.”
From fanboy to foe: A mentor-mentee dynamic
Hojlund’s journey from mimicking Ronaldo’s workouts to facing him on the pitch reads like a football fairytale. The Dane’s relentless drive—modeled after CR7’s legendary discipline—has made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards. But Thursday’s celebration wasn’t just imitation; it was a full-circle moment.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s reaction, however, reveals a deeper truth: he’s acutely aware of his influence.
“I knew [the celebration] wasn’t disrespect,” he reiterated, framing it as a nod to his enduring legacy. For Hojlund, the gesture was pure adrenaline: “My excitement took over. How could it not? He’s Cristiano.”
Sunday’s stakes: More than just a game
As Denmark and Portugal gear up for their second leg, the subplot thickens. Ronaldo, 39 but still razor-sharp, aims to remind Hojlund—and the world—why his celebration became iconic. Hojlund, meanwhile, seeks to prove he’s more than just a tribute act.
For fans, it’s a clash of eras. For Cristiano Ronaldo, it’s validation that his blueprint still inspires. And for Hojlund? A chance to step out of his hero’s shadow—while carrying his lessons forward.