WATCH: Ukrainian soldiers pay tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo with the iconic ‘SIUU’ celebration while operating their self-propelled howitzer

The celebration shows how far-reaching the influence of Ronaldo is.

WATCH: Ukrainian soldiers pay tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo with the iconic ‘SIUU’ celebration while operating their self-propelled howitzer

Crisitano and Ukraine troop both dropping a siuu celebration. (twitter/@timelinecr7)

In a historic event, Cristiano Ronaldo saw his celebration being emulated by soldiers fighting in the Russo-Ukrainian war earlier this week. The player has been an embodiment of tenacity and motivation and the video, which surfaced on Instagram, further consolidated his fame as one of the most influential athletes of all time.

Many famous people have celebrated using Ronaldo’s trademark celebration including influencers and players across the world. However, this time, Ukraine’s troops deployed in the war against Russia, were seen celebrating with the famous SIUU, after using a self-propelled howitzer.

Ronaldo’s characteristic goal celebration consists of a mid-air pirouette followed by the exclamation “si!” (often spelled “siu”), which is Spanish for “yes!” It’s an exclamation of joy at scoring.  After Ronaldo jumps and falls, fans usually join him in yelling the word, creating a thunderous sound that reverberates around the stadium.

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The ‘siu!’ celebration became synonymous with Ronaldo in the latter stages of his career, and he initially performed it while at Real Madrid. He famously yelled “siiiiiiuu!” on stage after winning the Ballon d’Or ahead of longtime rival Lionel Messi in 2014, eliciting a mixed reaction, with many perplexed by the outburst.

Ronaldo drops a hint regarding his future

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Ronaldo, after scoring yet another international goal. (credit: Sky Sports)

Cristiano Ronaldo dropped a major signal about his future as he became the first player in history to appear in 200 international matches, scoring the game-winning goal against Iceland. On Tuesday night, the 38-year-old scored a late winner to maintain the Selecao atop Group J for UEFA Euro qualifiers, and he afterward released a video on Instagram about his ‘dream’.

As he nears the conclusion of his career, Ronaldo seems to imply that he will likely continue to play until Euro 2024. After being relegated to the bench for Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2022 matches, the Al-Nassr forward is back in the starting lineup under new coach Roberto Martinez.

Cristiano also sent a letter on Instagram reminiscing on his 200-match journey with Portugal. “200 games with the same commitment, dedication, and responsibility, just like the first time I played with this jersey. I am here, continuing to score, pursuing my dream and giving my all for the team and for our country. Por amor a Portugal,” wrote the star striker.