Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez are reportedly planning a lavish wedding ceremony for next weekend on the Portuguese island of Madeira, where Ronaldo grew up. The couple is said to be exchanging vows at Funchal Cathedral, followed by a reception at the five-star Savoy Palace hotel.
Recent reports suggest that two floors of the Savoy Palace hotel will be unavailable to other guests on Friday and Saturday, and several bar areas will also be closed, indicating preparations for a private event. This rumored wedding follows earlier speculation that the pair might wed at Quinta da Regaleira estate in Sintra.
Funchal holds significant personal meaning for Ronaldo, being his birthplace and hometown. The city features a bronze statue in his honor and a hotel named after him. Despite an estimated net worth between $1.2 billion and $1.4 billion, Ronaldo's return to his roots for this milestone is seen as sentimental, given his upbringing in poverty.
Both Ronaldo and Rodriguez have been seen displaying prominent diamond rings, fueling speculation about an imminent wedding. Rodriguez recently shared photos on social media, including one where she appeared to be showcasing a large diamond ring. The couple has been spending time in Portugal ahead of the rumored ceremony, with Rodriguez posting about a relaxing beach day.
Ronaldo had previously mentioned his intention to marry Rodriguez after the 2022 World Cup, telling Piers Morgan, "I hope to arrive at my wedding with the champion's trophy. I'm going to marry her because I believe it's the right time. Not just because she's the mother of my children - but because she's the person I love most."
The couple became engaged in August of the previous year after eight years together. Rodriguez confirmed the engagement on Instagram with a post stating, "Yes, I do." Ronaldo recounted that he proposed around 1 a.m., with their children present, and that he had been searching for the perfect engagement ring for Rodriguez.
Ronaldo and Rodriguez have four children together: twins Eva Maria and Mateo, born via surrogacy; Alana, and their son Angel, who tragically passed away shortly after birth. Ronaldo also has an older son, Cristiano Jr., from a previous relationship. Rodriguez met Ronaldo in 2016 while working as a sales assistant at a Gucci store in Madrid.
In 2022, Ronaldo signed a lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, moving to the Middle East and effectively concluding his career at the highest European level. The move followed his unsuccessful attempt to join a Champions League club. Ronaldo also holds a stake in Al-Nassr, further contributing to his wealth. His decision to play in Saudi Arabia has placed him alongside Lionel Messi in taking on promotional roles for the nation, which has faced international scrutiny regarding its human rights record and treatment of various social groups.