Cristiano Ronaldo, hailed as the “symbol of Portugal,” received prestigious recognition on Monday from the President of Portugal, Anibal Cavaco Silva. Originally scheduled for January 7 but postponed due to the passing of Eusebio, the ceremony finally took place on January 20, 2014, at the presidential palace of Belem in Lisbon. The event was broadcasted on various television channels and attended by numerous personalities from the Portuguese football community.
President Cavaco Silva expressed his desire to honor “an internationally renowned athlete who has become a symbol of Portugal.” During the ceremony, he commended Ronaldo’s extraordinary talent, emphasizing the football star’s significant contribution to Portugal’s global influence. The President lauded Ronaldo’s consistent display of talent, discipline, and determination, citing him as “an example for younger generations.” In recognition of his exceptional career, Ronaldo was granted the title of grand officer of the Order of the Infante Dom Henri, a distinction established in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator, a key figure in Portuguese colonial expansion.
During the ceremony, Ronaldo proudly showcased the 2013 Ballon d’Or, which he had received just a week prior as the world’s best footballer. The trophy is set to be displayed in his museum inaugurated in December in Madeira, the Portuguese archipelago of his origin. Ronaldo expressed his immense pride in representing Portugal globally and considered the distinction as an additional source of motivation to continue working hard and representing Portugal at the highest level. The Real Madrid star, soon to turn 29, remains a prominent figure for both his club and the Portugal national team.
