Sporting CP paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo during a match on Saturday, observing a seventh-minute ovation in recognition of the forward's international retirement with Portugal. The gesture acknowledged Ronaldo's formative years at the Lisbon club before his departure for Manchester United in 2003.
The tribute took place on November 7, 2026, shortly after Ronaldo announced the end of his Portugal career. Sporting supporters rose to applaud the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, whose professional debut came with the club's senior team at age 17.
Ronaldo scored five goals in 31 appearances for Sporting before his transfer to Old Trafford launched a career that would include five Champions League titles, a European Championship with Portugal in 2016, and a record 133 international goals.
