Why Did Cristiano Ronaldo Not Celebrate Bale's Goal Against Liverpool?
During the 2018 UEFA Champions League final against Liverpool, Cristiano Ronaldo did not celebrate when Gareth Bale scored a goal. This behavior stirred debates and speculations. The reasons behind his lack of celebration are multifaceted, reflecting his deep sense of professionalism, his personal beliefs, and the dynamics of the game.
Personal Beliefs and Professionalism
Ronaldo's behavior can be understood in the context of his personal beliefs and the high standards he sets for himself. He is known for his work ethic and dedication, which have been critical to his success. As a player whose achievements are based predominantly on hard work, every match demands his full attention and effort. When Ronaldo does not score, he remains focused and does not overshadow his teammates' achievements. His non-celebratory response is a manifestation of his belief that in football, the ultimate measure of success is individual performance and not individual accolades. To Ronaldo, it comes down to the effort he puts into each game.
Context and Dynamics of the Match
The 2018 UEFA Champions League final was a crucial moment for both Ronaldo and his team. The game's high pressure and significance may have contributed to Ronaldo's lack of celebration. At the time, there was speculation about his future at Real Madrid. Faced with such mixed emotions, Ronaldo may have felt conflicted and focused more on the team's overall performance rather than individual success. He had just scored a goal himself earlier in the match, which might have temporarily diverted his attention. Additionally, the team's collective success and their journey to the final may have been more important to him than individual recognition at that moment.
Respect for Teammates and Friends
Ronaldo's respect for his teammates and friends, including Gareth Bale, is a significant factor. He has built strong bonds within the squad, and his lack of celebration of Bale's goal can be seen as a gesture of solidarity. In team sports, individual celebrations can sometimes overshadow the collective efforts, and Ronaldo's choice may have been a way to accentuate his team-first philosophy. Teamwork and unity are crucial elements in high-pressure situations like the Champions League final, and Ronaldo's actions during such moments reflect his commitment to these values.
Disappointment with Personal Performance
Another possible reason for Ronaldo's behavior is his own personal disappointment with his performance. Until and unless he scores a goal, he does not celebrate his teammates' achievements. Ronaldo is not a player who lets his guard down; he keeps the pressure on himself to perform at the highest level in every game. The 2018 final, despite his recent goal, may have been a struggle for him. Even as he may have felt happy for his teammates, his internalized standards demanded that he should have scored as well. This struggle with personal performance is a well-known part of his character and may have influenced his behavior during that game.
In conclusion, Ronaldo's lack of celebration of Bale's goal during the 2018 UEFA Champions League final was a complex mixture of personal beliefs, team dynamics, and his own performance. It reflects his dedication to his team, his self-imposed standards, and the high-pressure environment of such significant matches. Whether driven by a sense of professionalism, personal achievement, or team strategy, his behavior remains a testament to his reputation as one of the greatest players in the history of football.