Cristiano Ronaldo shared a video of himself relaxing on the beach after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit, but the post poses more questions than he intended.
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Ronaldo shares a video from the beachPortugal star's blackened toenails raise questionsReason behind 39-year-old's choice explainedWHAT HAPPENED?
Ronaldo was unwinding after his team's Euro 2024 quarter-final exit at the hands of France and opted to share the moment on Instagram. However, the shot revealed that Ronaldo's toenails have been blackened. Many might believe that Ronaldo's frequent long-range shots and free-kicks might have bruised him, but the darkness on his toenails is actually paint.
AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Ronaldo has posted many images of social media over the years that show he frequently paints his toenails. But the bizarre choice is more than just a bold statement, instead he adds a layer of varnish to protect them.
THE EXPLANATION
Painted toenails is common among MMA fighters because it protects them from being broken or cracked, and Ronaldo has opted to copy the tactic to stop his being damaged from his many lethal shots. Meanwhile, it also helps prevent them being infected by bacteria and fungi, which is a danger for footballers given they sweat so much over the course of 90 minutes.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
Ronaldo will enjoy a break after his team's disappointing end to the campaign in Germany before he begins preparing for the new season with Al-Nassr, as they look to challenge for the Saudi Pro League title in 2024-25.