Nike have moved quick to celebrate Cristiano Ronaldo becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football by unveiling a bespoke CR7 pitch in Madeira alongside a new special edition Mercurial Superfly for the Manchester United frontman.
Ronaldo broke the record last night in typically dramatic fashion with the latest of late braces turning defeat into victory as he carried Portugal to a 2-1 win over an inspired Republic of Ireland side. As the full time whistle blew Nike unveiled a refurbished pitch in the Quinta Falcão community centre in Madeira to mark where Cristiano Ronaldo spent his early childhood — and developed the goal-setting habits that would help him develop into a generational footballer.
The pitch is set at the local community centre where Ronaldo spent his early childhood years and includes a painted goal that carries a special meaning for Ronaldo: his commitment to setting personal goals on his way to becoming one of the best footballers in the world.
Designed by Portuguese artist AkaCorleone, the goal’s crossbars give an illustrated timeline of Ronaldo’s career in 15 scenes, depicting the places that shaped him, the in-game moments that immortalized him, and the accolades that keep stacking up. It was Ronaldo’s ambition to set clear goals that separated him from his peers; now he encourages the next generation of footballers to view the renovated pitch as evidence that goal-setting, not talent alone, is the foundation for his success.
“I always had a dream to be a footballer. Whatever it is you want to achieve in life, it’s important that you set goals so you have something to work toward,” says Ronaldo. “Even if they are small goals, accomplishing them gives you a great focus and sense of achievement.”
Further recognising Ronaldo’s influence among his peers is a commemorative CR110 boot, given to 110 rising stars in the primary countries where Ronaldo has played: Portugal, England, Spain and Italy. The shattered multicolor print is a visual exploration of breaking records.
The tape seam on the heel is inspired by Portugal’s national flag, highlighted by a rich burgundy on the lateral side, gold detailing and speckled laces. The tongue tab has a graphic interpretation of the date (June 6, 2004) and the minute (90 + 3 stoppage time) when Ronaldo scored his first professional goal for Portugal.
