Riyadh: In an extraordinary display of devotion, a 24-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo fan, Gong, cycled 13,000 kilometers from China to Saudi Arabia to meet the Al-Nassr star.
Gong’s seven-month journey began on March 18, after Ronaldo cancelled his trip to China due to injury.
Determined to meet his idol, Gong traversed through Beijing, Xinjiang, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Iran, Qatar, and finally reached Riyadh on October 10.
During his arduous journey, Gong faced numerous challenges, including language barriers, financial constraints, and health issues. In Armenia, he suffered a high fever and collapsed, but received free treatment at a local hospital.
Upon arrival in Riyadh, Gong waited for Ronaldo’s return from Europe. Al-Nassr staff granted him a one-minute meeting, and a generous fan gifted him tickets to the Al Nassr vs Al Shabab match.
The emotional meeting took place on October 20, where Ronaldo shook Gong’s hand, hugged him, and signed an Al Nassr No 7 jersey and a banner with Gong’s friends’ names. Ronaldo also wrote a heartfelt quote on the banner.
Gong’s remarkable dedication has captured the hearts of football fans worldwide, showcasing the unwavering loyalty of Cristiano Ronaldo’s fanbase.