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Kerala CM V D Satheesan pays tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo

The Chief Minister hailed the Portuguese footballer as an inspiration to Malayalis following his retirement from international football.

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Thursday paid tribute to football legend Cristiano Ronaldo as the Portuguese star concluded his international career. According to Rediff, Satheesan described the 41-year-old footballer as an inspiration to generations of fans, particularly in Kerala.

In a post on X, Satheesan said Ronaldo turned football into poetry and left a legacy that goes beyond trophies and goals. The Chief Minister noted that for Malayalis, football is a way of life and Ronaldo's impact is deeply felt in the state.

Satheesan stated that the footballer's dedication and ability to recover from setbacks showed how hard work can lead to great success. He added that Ronaldo's determination has encouraged young people to pursue larger dreams and refuse to give up.

The Chief Minister also recalled how children in Kerala villages have been inspired by Ronaldo's iconic number 7 shirt. He mentioned that the footballer's victories and emotions have become part of the local community's own experiences.

Ronaldo announced he would no longer play for the Portugal national team, ending a career that lasted over two decades. His international tenure included six World Cups, a European Championship title, and the all-time record for men's international goals.

In a video message shared on social media, Ronaldo said the time had come for him to return the national team's number 7 shirt to the Portuguese people.

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