There’s actually a reason behind why Cristiano Ronaldo stands slightly sideways during the national anthem.
This summer, Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal national football team into the 2026 FIFA World Cup—a tournament he has already said will be his last. At 41, he’s achieved almost everything the game has to offer, but there’s still one major prize missing from his collection.
The World Cup has always eluded him, and this could be his final chance to change that and end his international career on the highest note.
With Portugal expected to be one of the most watched teams, fans will likely notice some of Ronaldo’s pre-match habits. One of them stands out—during the national anthem, he approaches it a little differently than his teammates, something that has caught attention over the years.
Why Cristiano Ronaldo stands sideways during the national anthem?
Before every international match, both teams line up side by side as their national anthems are played—it’s a long-standing tradition in football.
But one small detail often stands out. Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t face straight ahead like most of his teammates. Instead, he turns slightly to the side while singing the anthem.
There’s a simple reason behind it. Ronaldo positions himself that way so he can face the Portuguese flag inside the stadium. For him, it’s a personal gesture of respect and pride—his way of acknowledging the country he represents every time he steps onto the pitch.
It’s something he’s done consistently over the years, and it’s likely to be seen again as Portugal national football team chase their first-ever FIFA World Cup title. Despite all his achievements, that remains the one major trophy missing from his international career.