Fans are applauding Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo for a remarkable act of fair play after asking a referee to overturn a penalty he won.
The Al-Nassr forward showcased exemplary sportsmanship during Al-Nassr’s recent AFC Champions League match against Persepolis. In a pivotal moment, Ronaldo appeared to be fouled in the box, prompting the referee to award a penalty to Al-Nassr.
In an unexpected turn of events, Ronaldo approached the referee and insisted that no foul had occurred. This act of honesty led to the cancellation of the penalty after a VAR review.
Cristiano Ronaldo waved off his own penalty against Persepolis, telling the referee himself he didn't believe it was a foul. 👀
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) November 27, 2023
Not something you see every day in football. 👏 pic.twitter.com/do8L58tFYJ
Despite the 0-0 draw against Persepolis, Al-Nassr secured their spot in the last 16 of the 2023/24 AFC Champions League as Group E winners.
Ronaldo’s fair play did not go unnoticed, earning widespread praise from fans and sparking conversations on social media. The incident also prompted comparisons with his rival, Lionel Messi, highlighting Ronaldo’s integrity and commitment to fair play.
RONALDO is not that guy. Penalty to Argentina 😂
— Kara (@UTDKara) November 27, 2023
This is what true sportsmanship spirit means, people should learn pic.twitter.com/r63boxxZct
— Tamoghna (@ReyesDeUniverso) November 27, 2023
MASSIVE FROM RONALDO 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/gXmSswp3um
— LARRYGAGAA💡🇳🇬😎 (@R_olanrewajuu) November 27, 2023
Can your goat do such ?? pic.twitter.com/Rv2CGw7c0P
— Omotayo_Frosh 🫧🫥 (@O_FROSH01) November 27, 2023
Ronaldo we need to hit that 1000.. They will still bash you no need for mercy ! pic.twitter.com/QjorZtGQg4
— Seko Not Fofana ⚪🇨🇲 (@TalemSeko) November 27, 2023
The more reason he is loved. He is always honest but you see that Argentina short fraudstér, he will appreciate the ref for blowing that.
— AKIN (@Akinjoshua2017) November 27, 2023
Ronaldo is the GOAT that ever liveth
I've never seen Messi do that💀😭
— SUAREZ (@suayrez) November 27, 2023
Sportsmanship at its finest! Cristiano Ronaldo's gesture, acknowledging he wasn't fouled despite being awarded a penalty, exemplifies fair play and integrity on the field.
— Mudasser Rasheed (@mudasserrashee5) November 28, 2023
The football star’s gesture adds to his impressive season, where he has scored 18 goals in 18 games across all competitions.