JUST IN: The bust of Cristiano Ronaldo that has caused rage in the networks

The player arrived at the airport accompanied by his girlfriend, son and his best friend.

More than 20 years ago, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro began his adventure in football in his first clubs in his native Funchal, in the region of Madeira, Portugal. Today, he holds the title of the top scorer of Real Madrid (with 390 entries) and is captain of the national team. As a token of gratitude for filling the island with growing pride, Madeira changed the name of his airport to that of the award-winning player. Ronaldo wanted to share this special moment with his girlfriend, Georgina Rodríguez and with his son, the little Christian of six years.

Hundreds of Madeirans gathered at the small Funchal airport to join the party and witness Cristiano's arrival at the hangar. At the event, Cristiano also came accompanied by his best friend, the Portuguese also Ricardo Regufe. The name of the athlete could already be read on the main sign of the air terminal. In a brief ceremony, the country's own president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and the Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, were in charge of unveiling a bronze bust, which has drawn attention in social networks.

Ronaldo said he felt "happy and proud" about this distinction and spoke about those sectors of his country that were not very happy with that decision. "I know some people do not agree and some are even here right now but we are free, we live in a democracy and everyone has the right to think in their own way." Proud of his roots, Cristiano continued with his speech. "I know the responsibility that is involved and I always try to be of Portugal and, in particular, Madeira, with dedication, spirit of sacrifice and passion."

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Determined to always bear the name of the place that saw him grow, Cristiano decided to invest in his land, and in 2016 inaugurated a hotel in Madeira, as well as a museum with his name. From then on, year after year, the place is filled with tourists eager to know the land of CR7. After his speech and the unveiling of the unique bronze bust, the player toured the terminal in which he set up an exhibition with caricatures that recount his career. Beside him was his lover, looking out for little Cristiano. One day before the ceremony at the airport, Ronaldo played a friendly against Sweden. His mother, Dolores Aveiro, his girlfriend and Cristiano Junior were present in the game supporting crack.