Dubai Dubai. Cristiano Ronaldo is a global icon who has demonstrated greatness both on and off the field. There is no doubt about his fans across the world and one dedicated fan from China traveled nearly 13,000 kilometers to meet his idol. A 24-year-old man named Gong cycled for seven months from China to Saudi Arabia to meet them. They began their journey on 18 March and finally met Ronaldo outside Al Nassr Football Club on 20 October.
According to reports, Gong first traveled north to Beijing and then west to Kazakhstan. On the way to Riyadh he crossed six countries, including Georgia, Iran and Qatar. They faced language barriers, varying food prices, and the fatigue of long-distance biking.
Covering a distance of 13,000 kilometres, Gong carried along two power banks, a tent, cooking supplies, clothes and other essential items. He often ate bread in countries where food was expensive and used translation apps to communicate. In August, he became ill in Armenia, but received free hospital treatment. Gong came up with the idea of cycling to see his star after Ronaldo canceled his trip to China due to injury in February.
The report further added that after arriving in Riyadh on October 10, Gong had to wait for a few days to meet Ronaldo. The Al Nassr staff were friendly and arranged a quick fan meeting. Before meeting Ronaldo, Gong saw him play live for the first time when another fan gave him tickets.
He was finally able to meet his idol, where Ronaldo shook his hand, hugged him and signed the Al Nassr number 7 jersey. He also signed a banner for Gong and his friends that read, “What I dream of is true love and freedom.” After this amazing experience, Gong plans to travel to Portugal, Ronaldo's home country.
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