Following his remarkable return to Manchester United earlier this week, Cristiano Ronaldo has now become the highest goal scorer in men’s international football after netting his 110th and 111th in Portugal’s 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over the Republic of Ireland.
The 36 year old — who equalled the record with a double against France during EURO 2020 — suprasses Iran’s Ali Daei who scored 109 goals for Iran between 1993 and 2006, and also equals Sergio Ramos’ record for men’s European international caps in his 180th appearance.
Paying homage to this achievement, Nike has unveiled a renovated pitch in the Funchal area of Madeira, Portugal, the area Ronaldo grew up in. Designed by artist AkaCorleone, the pitch is adorned in the colors of the country’s national team, alongside unique motifs based on the forward’s career.
The crossbars of each goal act as a canvas for a timeline of Ronaldo’s career in 15 scenes, with illustrations describing the moments that have seen him rise to where he is today. From his early success at Manchester United and his subsequent big-money move to Real Madrid, to his international accolades with Portugal, the pitch has been designed to encourage the next generation of footballers to strive to similar heights.
Alongside the pitch, Ronaldo’s achievements have also been honored with a commemorative CR110 boot. Boasting an all-over multi-colored print with a tape seam on the heel inspired by the Portuguese flag, the boot is decorated with rich burgundy, gold detailing and speckled laces. The boot is rounded out with graphics on the tongue, depicting the date and minute of when he scored his maiden international goal back in 2004.
In related news, 1992’s Nike Air Huarache LE “Toadstool” is set for a return.