Why does Cristiano Ronaldo stand sideways during Portugal’s national anthem?

CRISTIANO RONALDO is hoping to win his first World Cup with Portugal in Qatar this winter.

The 37-year-old has cemented his place as one of the best players of all time after scoring his 700th club goal earlier in the season.

AFP

Cristiano Ronaldo standing sideways during the national anthem against Hungary at Euro 2020[/caption]

With what could be his potential last appearance at a World Cup, Ronaldo will be keen to leave his mark in a group containing South Korea, Ghana and Uruguay.

However, Portugal face competition if they are to make it to the late stages of the tournament, with Brazil and France favourites to lift the trophy.

Why does Cristiano Ronaldo stand sideways during Portugal’s national anthem?

Before a game kicks off at the World Cup, the national anthems of both teams are observed.

Players join in unison to blast the lyrics to their country’s anthem, but Ronaldo has been spotted doing his own thing, standing sideways in the line-up.

With his hand on the shoulder of Portugal’s goalkeeper, Ronaldo stands at an angle during the anthem and the reason for this has been revealed.

The forward does this in order to face the Portugal flag during the national anthem, a patriotic gesture from CR7.

Whether this becomes a superstitious act remains to be seen, with the European side hoping to make it as far into the competition as they can.