The Art of Football: A Gallery of Iconic Goal Celebrations (Pt.1)
Welcome to the gallery of iconic goal celebrations in which we’ll delve into the mesmerizing world of goal celebrations that transcend the mere act of scoring. In the realm of football, these celebrations are not just moments of jubilation; they’re intricate displays of passion, emotion, and personal expression. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous “SIUUU” leap to Erling Haaland’s serene ‘Zen’ celebration, these iconic displays are crucial elements of the sport’s history. Join us on this exhilarating journey through the kaleidoscope of goal celebrations, where each gesture tells a unique story and encapsulates the essence of the beautiful game.
SIUUUU – Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo’s “SIUUU” celebration has become an emblematic symbol of his triumphs on the football field. This exuberant and electrifying celebration features Ronaldo leaping into the air while simultaneously twisting his body and shouting “SIUUUU” at the top of his lungs.
Ronaldo introduced the celebration at Real Madrid and has since carried it to different clubs, including Juventus and Manchester United. Whether it’s a critical goal in a high-stakes match or a record-breaking achievement, Ronaldo’s “SIUUU” reverberates across stadiums worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of fans and cementing its place as one of the most iconic goal celebrations in football history.
Zen. – Erling Haaland
It takes a certain level of coolness for a young striker to score, as he would do every week, and then sit on the ground and meditate in a yoga position to demonstrate his composure. This is what Erling Haaland would do every week at Dortmund, and still occasionally showcase at City. Calm, composed and collected in his play on the pitch and in his celebrations.
Milly Rock – Jesse Lingard
In Jesse Lingard’s prime, he was not only a top footballer but also an incredible dancer. Under Jose Mourinho, Lingard was in scintillating form for Manchester United and when he turned up to the Emirates to face Arsenal in 2018, he turned it into his personal dance floor. Scoring a great goal to put United two goals ahead, Lingard ran to the corner and ‘Milly Rocked’, emulating a dance move by American rapper Playboi Carti.
2 years ago. Jesse Lingard. Milly Rock. Emirates. Nothing was the same.
— VERSUS (@vsrsus) December 3, 2019
Iconic 🕺🏾 pic.twitter.com/g5DrGYUmvI
Knockout Punch – Wayne Rooney
The day before Manchester United faced Tottenham at home in 2015, a video was released which saw Rooney boxing in his kitchen just before the match and getting decked in his own house. It was the subject of much debate and discussion and Rooney was heavily criticised. Thus, when Rooney scored United’s third goal in only the 30th minute against Spurs, he ran to the corner, shadow-boxed the air and then passed out as if he had been knocked out. Legendary.
'Rooney's sucker punch'.
— metrosportHQ (@metrosportHQ) March 15, 2015
Tomorrow's Metro back page. #mufc #thfc pic.twitter.com/NLeXQuqN7z
Telling off the Kids – Jimmy Bullard
When Jimmy Bullard scored an equaliser from the penalty spot against Manchester City for Hull, he had a wicked celebration with his teammates lined up. In what is now one of the most iconic Premier League celebrations of all time, he sat his teammates on the floor and wagged his finger at them all, telling them off in the style of then-Hull manager, Phil Brown. Incredible.
Throwback to this iconic Jimmy Bullard celebration replicating then Hull manager Phil Brown 😂
— Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) May 21, 2020
What's your favourite celebration? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ahyFpBeC4j
Smile for the Camera! – Heung min-Son
Heung min-Son is a lethal striker and once he’s scored, he’ll get his ‘camera’ out and take a photo to remember his victim. It’s an ice-cold celebration. He scores on your team, takes a picture, leaves and does the same thing the next week to the next team. He’s got everyone doing this celebration, even James Maddison!
Can you see me? – Pedri
Pedri, at just 21 years old, has made 120 appearances for Barcelona since moving from Las Palmas and he is nearing 20 caps for Spain. This is all while suffering an injury that kept him out for almost an entire year.
He caught the eyes of football fans a couple of years ago, not only for his sensational, silky skills but also for his celebration in which he cups his hands around his eyes as if he is squinting and wearing glasses. Pedri clarified that the celebration is dedicated to his father, who wears glasses and who ingrained his love for football.
By Nicky Helfgott /@NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)