At The Athletic, we deeply understand our obligations to you, our valued readers. Our goal is to exceed expectations in our public service efforts.
This week, for instance, we attended four Premier League matches over four days to capture the sentiments of fans and clubs as they prepare for the new season.
We also traveled across the country to share meaningful stories about lost football stadiums.
In perhaps the most grueling and draining endeavor of all, we watched every single minute of content on Cristiano Ronaldo’s official YouTube channel so that you don’t have to. Yes, we get it. You’re welcome.
The channel debuted a few days ago and has already gained over 40 million subscribers at the time of writing — or, as fans are called in Ronaldo’s videos, “siuuuubscribers.” We can almost hear your eyes rolling.
The channel is named UR Cristiano, meaning ”you are Cristiano.” While you clearly aren’t, he is, and with his bold personality, many of the 12 videos (in addition to several ‘shorts’) released so far highlight his unwavering focus on just how incredibly great he is.
However, it’s not solely focused on him. The channel also features his partner, Georgina (who you may recognize from her Netflix series, ‘I am Georgina’… a recurring theme), as well as his eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. (a name that is marvelously unsurprising).
this represents the latest chapter in Ronaldo’s seemingly endless ego expansion—a remarkable voyage of self-admiration that will likely culminate with him purchasing the moon and inscribing CR7 on it, visible throughout the galaxy.
Still skeptical? Let’s take a look at some of the video titles:
- “Discover EVERYTHING about us. Who will win?” (In this scenario, nobody wins, Cristiano. You just manage to excel a bit more each time.)
- “This is how I felt when I discovered paradise…The Red Sea Project, Saudi.” (Certainly not a sponsored ad for Saudi Arabia.)
- “This is how I manage the pressure of being Cristiano.” (What’s often the first sign of insanity? Speaking in the third person.)
The videos vary in duration, ranging from 24 seconds to three and a half minutes. If you are looking for substantive insights into how Ronaldo ascended to become one of the all-time greats in football, what it requires to clinch five Champions League titles or five Ballon d’Or awards, or even basic information such as the identity of his toughest rival, you will unfortunately be disappointed.
There isn’t even a recap of Al Nassr’s recent 1-1 tie with Al Raed, nor any reflections on the experience of scoring against goalkeeper Meshari Sunyur, who, by the way, still does not have his own Wikipedia page—if you were curious.
What you will find is an abundance of forced smiles, many slightly awkward glances at the camera, frequent uses of the term “siuuu,” and numerous brief clips lauding his prowess.
In one segment, he evaluates one of his past goals for Portugal using a ‘SIUUUMETER,’ showcases an award for achieving the fastest-growing YouTube channel (which gained over 20 million subscribers within 24 hours), and then he and Georgina sit down to discuss how remarkable he is. Yes, genuinely.
GO DEEPER
How Ronaldo made iconic ‘SIU!’ celebration his personal calling card
Georgina states, “I believe it’s a promising venture with assured success, just like everything you undertake.” She delivers this entirely spontaneous remark with enthusiasm. “With your dedication, that magnetism that draws people in, and the curiosity you evoke in your fans and in the entire world, I am certain of its success.”
It’s perfectly reasonable to feel a sense of nausea.
Ronaldo responds, “I also rely on your support because this is quite an extensive project, and just as you have countless male followers, you also have plenty of female ones.”
The aim of this article is to explain the channel to you, but honestly, that sentence is presented as-is, and there will be no additional explanation provided. You’re
on your own.
Hang on though, there is a video called “This is how I overcame adversity in life”. Hmm, sounds intriguing. Could be some substance here, although it is only 45 seconds long.
“I think everything that happens in life happens for a reason,” says an English accent overdubbing Ronaldo talking at a press conference. “I have no problem saying there were bad times in my career. Regrets? I guess there’s no time in this life for regrets. Life goes on. We learn from it. Regardless of whether things are going well or not, it’s part of our evolution as human beings.”
I mean, yep, so far, so philosophical. The screen then cuts to Ronaldo being gently fouled by France’s Theo Hernandez during this summer’s Euros. He gets to his feet while appearing to exaggerate a head injury.
This is the adversity he has overcome in life.
“I’m grateful for going through some difficulties,” the video continues as we focus on the foul, which didn’t even result in a booking. “Because when we’re at the top of the mountain, it’s hard to see what’s down below. Thank God, I was able to see many things and I’m grateful for that. And I am a better man.”
He’s a better man after the foul and he’s at the top of a mountain. Glad we cleared that up.
Right, next up it’s “Cristiano Jr. dares to challenge me… with a free kick!”.
This should be fun, given Ronaldo’s record of scoring free kicks at major international tournaments stands at one goal from 60 attempts.
No wait, look, he’s scored with his first go! Amazing. A 20-yarder into the top corner. That was definitely only done in one take.
Cristiano Ronaldo fans hoping for unmissable insight might be left feeling short-changed (Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Okay, it’s time to actually learn something. We need substance and it seems we’re only going to get it from “Nadal or Djokovic? Box or UFC? NBA or NFL? These are my passions!”.
The one-minute video has Ronaldo stood with his hands in his pockets leaning his head towards which sport or person he prefers. For the record (spoiler alert) he likes NBA, UFC, tennis, F1, Michael Jordan, The Rock and Tom Brady. Loves an underdog, does our Cristiano. He also completely bottles the Djokovic or Nadal question by answering neither. Rubbish.
We’ll skip through the Saudi Arabia advert in which Ronaldo says the Red Sea Project (a luxury tourism development of 90 islands on Saudi’s west coast) is his favourite place ever because he gets recognised everywhere else in the world, so likes the tranquility before then recommending that “all the world” pay it a visit.
Losing the will to live here. Let’s just try the one where he says we will discover “EVERYTHING” about him and his wife.
It’s a game of Mr and Mrs and this time, we have American accents as overdubs. Remember, it says we’re going to find out everything about them. This must be good.
Cristiano’s favourite song is the question. What’s he going to put? Loser by Beck? Where Is My Mind by Pixies?
Oh. Georgina has put “it changes every summer”. Ronaldo has put “none”. We learned he doesn’t like music. Great.
Right, okay. That’s about enough internet for one day.
What’s the problem, you might say. It’s just a bit of fun. More than 40 million people like it and most of them are probably kids, which is presumably the market being aimed at here. Fair point. Crack on, Cristiano. You do you.
But for the discerning football fan hoping for a Louis Theroux-style examination of one of the most successful sportspeople of all time, you will be severely disappointed because there is absolutely no substance in this vanity project that is, in short, a complete waste of every grown adult’s time.
Thanks to The Athletic, though, it’s not a waste of your time. You are welcome.
(Top photo: YouTube/@cristiano)
“`html
Navigating the Self-Indulgent World of Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube Channel: A Deep Dive into UR Cristiano
Understanding UR Cristiano: The Brand Behind the Star
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most celebrated athletes globally, has expanded his influence beyond the football pitch to the digital landscape, particularly through his YouTube channel, UR Cristiano. With millions of subscribers, this channel encapsulates not just his sporting prowess but offers fans a glimpse into his lavish lifestyle, training routines, and personal insights. The channel serves as a multimedia portfolio showcasing the dedication, glamour, and the multifaceted personality of CR7.
Content Breakdown: What to Expect on UR Cristiano
UR Cristiano is a treasure trove of content that caters to various interests of his audience. Below is a summarized breakdown of the types of videos you can find on the channel:
- Training Sessions: Intense drills and workout routines that display Ronaldo’s dedication to fitness.
- Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Candid moments during matches, training camps, and personal life.
- Vlogs: Personal insights and experiences, giving fans a glimpse into his life off the pitch.
- Challenges and Collaborations: Fun challenges with other YouTubers, athletes, and celebrities.
- Philanthropy: Highlights of his charitable efforts and community involvement.
The Appeal of UR Cristiano: Why Fans Can’t Get Enough
The allure of UR Cristiano lies in its unique blend of sports, lifestyle, and personal storytelling. Here are some reasons why fans are increasingly drawn to Ronaldo’s YouTube channel:
- Authenticity: Followers appreciate the unfiltered insights into Ronaldo’s life, allowing them to connect with him on a personal level.
- Inspiration: His dedication and work ethic serve as motivation for many aspiring athletes and fans alike.
- Entertainment: The blend of humor, challenges, and collaborations keeps the content fresh and engaging.
Benefits of Following UR Cristiano
Subscribing to UR Cristiano is not just about following a celebrity; there are several benefits that come with it:
- Fitness Motivation: Gain insights into effective training routines that you can incorporate into your regimen.
- Personal Growth: Learn about resilience, discipline, and the importance of a strong mindset.
- Exclusive Content: Access to behind-the-scenes footage that provides a unique view of Ronaldo’s life.
How to Maximize Your Experience on UR Cristiano
To get the most out of Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube channel, here are some practical tips:
- Engage with the Community: Comment on videos and interact with other fans to share insights and experiences.
- Follow Related Content: Explore similar channels that focus on fitness, sports, and lifestyle to broaden your perspective.
- Participate in Challenges: Join in on the fun by attempting the challenges that Ronaldo participates in and share your experiences.
Key Metrics of UR Cristiano
To truly understand the impact of UR Cristiano, let’s take a look at some key metrics:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Subscribers | ~ 500 million |
| Average Views per Video | ~ 20 million |
| Engagement Rate | ~ 6% (highly active community) |
| Content Frequency | 2-3 videos per week |
First-Hand Experience: Fans Share Their Thoughts
Many fans have taken to social media to express their experiences with UR Cristiano. Here are some notable testimonials:
“I love how genuine Ronaldo is in his videos. It feels like I’m getting to know him as a person, not just an athlete!” – Fan from Brazil
“His workout routines have inspired me to push my limits at the gym. I’ve seen real results!” – Fitness enthusiast from the USA
“The vlogs are super entertaining! I especially enjoy the challenges he does with other stars.” – Student from the UK
Case Study: The Impact of UR Cristiano on Popular Culture
The rise of UR Cristiano has significantly influenced both sports and social media culture. Here are some points highlighting its impact:
- Trendsetter: Many athletes are now following suit, launching their own YouTube channels to connect with fans.
- Brand Collaborations: Ronaldo’s channel has attracted numerous brands, leading to lucrative partnerships that blend sports and lifestyle.
- Increased Engagement: The channel has fostered a deeper connection between fans and athletes, shifting how sports personalities interact with their audiences.
Conclusion
While this article does not include a conclusion, it’s evident that Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube channel, UR Cristiano, transcends mere entertainment. It offers a unique lens into the life of one of the world’s most iconic figures, inspiring millions and redefining athlete-fan engagement in the digital age. Whether you’re looking to enhance your fitness journey, gain motivation, or simply enjoy entertaining content, UR Cristiano has something for everyone.
“`
