A renovated pitch in the Funchal community of Madeira, Portugal, celebrates Cristiano Ronaldo’s new record as the leading goal scorer for a men’s national team. The pitch is set at the local community center 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.
A special goal at the Santo Antonio pitch tells the story of Ronaldo’s illustrious career through the artwork of Portuguese artist AkaCorleone. The Portuguese phrase on the other net, “Marca o teu destino,” translates to Mark Your Destiny
The illustrations start with Ronaldo as a young boy who played on the same community pitch in Madeira that stands today.
The goal recognizes important moments in his career, like his first goal in 2004…
…as well as his incredible athleticism, exemplified by this overhead kick from 2018.
“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.”
Ronaldo’s geographic influence across countries is represented by vibrant scenes illustrated in national and club colors.
His many career accolades, from individual awards to team honors, are displayed in bright and playful compositions.
The illustrations finish with Ronaldo’s record-breaking achievement.
Further recognizing Ronaldo’s influence among his peers is a commemorative Nike 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 boot’s shattered graphic is partially inspired by a childhood anecdote from Ronaldo. One day, he was kicking the ball with a friend when he accidentally sent the ball straight through a neighbor’s window, breaking it to pieces.
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.
