May 04, (THEWILL) – The Portuguese city of Lisbon is set to honour Cristiano Ronaldo with a medal, the town hall announced on Thursday.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who arrived in Lisbon at the age of 12 to join the Academy of Sporting Club, is regarded as an integral part of the city’s history. Despite leaving for Manchester United in 2003, Ronaldo has always been a passionate advocate for Lisbon and has helped to promote the city around the world.
In a statement, Lisbon’s mayor, Carlos Moedas, said: “This is a tribute to a boy who became a man in Lisbon and who, in addition to his identity of the place where he was born, became a great Lisboan, in the passion he has for the city.”
The award recognises Ronaldo’s significant contribution to the city’s reputation on a global scale. The Portuguese superstar has won numerous accolades in his career, but this latest recognition holds a special significance. “Cristiano Ronaldo is also a great Lisboan and that has never been recognised,” said Moedas.
The ceremony to present Ronaldo with the medal is expected to take place in the near future, further cementing the player’s legacy in both Lisbon and the world of football.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
