In an extraordinary display of dedication, a 24-year-old Chinese fan named Gong embarked on a 13,000-kilometer cycling journey spanning seven months and seven countries to meet his idol, football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. His remarkable expedition culminated in a memorable encounter in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Ronaldo currently plays for Al Nassr Football Club.
The Journey
Gong, hailing from China’s Anhui province, commenced his journey on March 18, 2024, after learning that Ronaldo had to cancel a planned visit to China due to a leg injury. Determined to meet his hero, Gong decided to cycle to Riyadh, traversing countries including Kazakhstan, Georgia, Iran, and Qatar. Throughout his travels, he carried essentials such as power banks, a tent, cooking utensils, and clothing. In regions where food was expensive, he subsisted on bread and relied on translation apps to communicate with locals.
The journey was fraught with challenges. In August, while in Armenia, Gong suffered a high fever and collapsed on the roadside but received free medical treatment from local authorities. Reflecting on his expedition, Gong stated, “This journey helped me make new friends and taught me patience and maturity.”
The Meeting
Upon reaching Riyadh on October 10, Gong had to wait several days as Ronaldo was in Europe for a match. On October 20, 2024, his perseverance paid off when he met Ronaldo outside the Al Nassr Football Club. During their brief interaction, Ronaldo shook hands with Gong, hugged him, and signed an Al Nassr No. 7 jersey. Gong also presented a banner bearing the message, “What I dream of is true love and freedom.”
Overwhelmed by the experience, Gong later shared videos of their meeting online, expressing, “I have met my hero.” He described the encounter as “dreamlike” and admitted that his mind went blank during the meeting.
Conclusion
Gong’s incredible journey underscores the profound impact Cristiano Ronaldo has on his fans worldwide. His unwavering determination and resilience serve as a testament to the lengths admirers will go to connect with their idols.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the world of football.
