Cristiano Ronaldo scores four goals in 61 minutes for Al Nassr in 4-0 win
The 38-year-old forward, who became the world's highest paid athlete when he joined Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr in December, netted the 500th, 501st, 502nd and 503rd league goal of his career against a helpless Al Wehda.
The goal spree began with 21 minutes on the clock. After taking a couple of touches inside the penalty area, he fired a powerful shot past the Al Wehda goalkeeper to give Rudi Garcia's side a deserved lead.
Then, to the delight of thousands inside the King Abdulaziz Stadium, he performed his iconic SIU celebration. Check out the incredible atmosphere after he scored below.
Just look at that reaction! 🔥
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) February 9, 2023
Ronaldo with a BRILLIANT finish 💥 pic.twitter.com/qVmmEFfqUl
Ronaldo, who pestered the Al Wehda defence throughout Thursday's clash in Mecca, netted his second of the game with five minutes left of the first-half – a third goal in two matches.
And he wasn't done there. After Al Nassr were given a penalty for handball, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner converted from the spot with ease to complete his 61st career hat-trick. SIXTY ONE.
But rather than perform an iconic mid-air pirouette celebration, the former Real Madrid forward stood near the corner flag and coldly locked his hands together with his eyes closed.
Ronaldo first performed the celebration against Everton in October and according to Manchester United's official website, it's a 'self-deprecating' nod to the position in which he sleeps when travelling to games.
And can you believe it, he wasn't done there. Just after the hour mark, the capacity crowd inside the King Abdulaziz Stadium produced their loudest SUI yet when Ronaldo scored his fourth.
He may have got lucky with the rebound but it was a night to remember for the Al Nassr forward, who has now scored 824 career goals.
Here's how social media reacted to the Ronaldo masterclass.
One said: "He still celebrates every goal like it's his first,"
While another commented: "Cristiano Ronaldo is still capable of playing for any European team in the world."
A third wrote: "Ronaldo really fell to his knees like he missed the chance of the century when his team is up 4-0 on his four goals. The passion this man has for the sport is crazy."